Melinda Colp

Melinda Johnson Colp, 56, formerly of Kalamazoo, passed away at home in Lakeland, FL, on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014. Melinda was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where she attended school, and raised her family before moving to Lakeland in 2003, she then continued with her education and earned her Master's Degree in Business Administration. She worked as a technical writer for Stryker Medical, was a dedicated volunteer and team leader (Team Will) with MADD Polk County, she had a passion for helping less fortunate or abused children, she was active in Life Leadership, enjoyed bowling, playing softball and spending quality time with family and friends. Melinda was preceded in death by her father Robert Johnson, and nephew William Pennock. She is survived by her husband James Colp; her mother Vernia Temple (Thomas); her two sons Alan Devine (Savannah), David Devine (Rachel); her two daughters Shanee Wasmund (Allen), Shelli Beard (Bryan); her four sisters Connie Johnson, Kathleen Pennock (Don), Tondra Hall, Amy Johnson (Ismael); her two brothers Robert Johnson (Doris), Michael Johnson; her ten grandchildren Gavin, Connor, Emma, Sophie, Ana, Alex, Allen, Allyssa, Anna, James; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who all loved her dearly. Memorial services will take place on Monday at 3:00 pm at Our Savior Lutheran Church, N. Socrum Loop Rd., Lakeland. Burial will take place at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. In lieu of flowers we ask you to please donate to the following organizations in Melinda's honor MADD Polk County by donating to www.walklikemadd.org/polk, or 5337 Socrum Loop Rd. Suite 252 Lakeland, Florida 33809. Heartland for Children by donating to www.heartlandforchildren.org, or 1239 E. Main Street Bartow, Florida 33830. If you knew Melinda, you know this would make her smile much more than flowers.