Obituaries
Melanie Anne Kawulok
Dr. Melanie Anne Kawulok of Sheridan, Wyoming, passed away peacefully at her home in Sheridan on December 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Though her time on Earth was heartbreakingly short, her legacy endures through the profound love and devotion of her family and the countless lives she touched, both in spirit and memory.
Born to Maxine Elizabeth Moriarty and the late Byron Lindstrom in Cheyenne, Wyoming; Melanie entered the world surrounded by her family’s hopes and dreams. She grew into a remarkable person whose life was characterized by compassion, humor, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. The dedication she had to assist her mother and son Nicholas in every avenue was unwavering. She built a remarkable career in the medical field—a calling that became both her vocation and her legacy. For 15 years, she served as a nurse practitioner at the Veterans Administration Hospital, where her gentle touch and steadfast care provided comfort to countless veterans. Additionally, she held the position of Lead Nurse for Sheridan County Public Health Department and contributed her expertise at Sheridan Memorial Hospital and Sugarland Urgent Care, earning the admiration of patients and colleagues alike for her kindness and dedication.
Beyond her professional achievements, Melanie’s heart was deeply devoted to her family. She was a loving wife to Dave Kawulok, whom she married in 2008, and a proud mother to Tim and Ashley Lee, Nicholas Neuman, Zach and Jon Kawulok. She also cherished her sisters Jean and Joan Lindstrom. She was a beloved grandmother to Noah, Carter, and Ezra Lee, who brought immense joy to her life. Her nieces McKenzie and Taylor Lindstrom, nephews Spencer and Anthony Brown were a constant source of happiness. Her sisters-in-law, Cathy and Stacy Kawulok, were steadfast and devoted friends. Her home radiated laughter, warmth, and a welcoming spirit that made everyone feel like family.
Melanie embraced life with an adventurous spirit, whether sharing stories, shopping, traveling, watching football, or immersing herself in a good book. She received her nursing degree from Sheridan College, a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) degree from the University of Wyoming, and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Sedona. Those who knew her fondly recall her quick wit, generous heart, and unwavering willingness to help anyone in need. She traveled not only to explore the world but to forge connections with people, stories, and the small yet beautiful details of life.
A Celebration of Life for Melanie will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church in Sheridan on Wednesday at 10:30. Family, friends, and all those touched by her life are warmly invited to gather and honor her memory. Though she left this world far too soon, Melanie’s spirit—marked by humor, compassion, and the love she shared so freely—will forever illuminate the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Online condolences may be made to www.sheridanfuneral.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.
Shawna moos
January 2, 2026 at 4:35 pm
She was an incredible lady. I so enjoyed our conversations we had at the VA
Marty Kethman
January 3, 2026 at 7:44 am
Oh I am so very sorry to hear about this loss. Mel was an amazing person professionally and personally. I will miss her. My prayers go to the family. May she RIP
Barbara Walter
January 4, 2026 at 5:01 pm
Such a shock to hear of Melanie’s death….she was every word of this beautiful obituary….my heart breaks for you Max, Jean and Joan Dave and the entire family. I will see you on Wednesday.
Robby Smith
January 5, 2026 at 10:15 am
So sorry to learn of her death. Prayers for her family. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord. 🙏
Judith Mcdowell
January 5, 2026 at 12:04 pm
I am deeply saddened to hear of Melanie’s passing. It was a pleasure to work with her and to tackle NP school together. She will be missed
Michelle Forni
January 7, 2026 at 10:44 am
My condolences to Melanie’s family and friends. She was exceptional it is a great loss and I am sure she will be dearly missed.
Shelly Weger
January 5, 2026 at 4:54 pm
I had the pleasure to work with Mel at the VA, such an amazing provider and a friend. She will be missed, sending my condolences and prayers to her family. 🙏
Amanda Loessberg
January 6, 2026 at 3:41 pm (Edit)
I worked with Melanie as a member of the treatment team on Unit 8 at the VA. She was down to earth, sweet, funny, and so smart. What a huge loss to her family, friends, coworkers, and patients. Most sincere condolences. She will be greatly missed.
Karen Getzel BSN, RN
January 8, 2026 at 7:45 am
Melanie always was willing to help the veterans; even those who were not established with primary care. She was an amazing nurse practitioner and is sorely missed.
Bev Bernard
January 9, 2026 at 4:00 pm
It is heartbreaking to hear of Melanie’s passing. What a loss to her family, friend’s and the community. She will be missed.
Lila Bintner RN
January 13, 2026 at 7:28 am
I felt sadness learning of Melanie’s passing. She was always very kind and caring when I interacted with her while we both worked at the VA. She will be missed.
Jackie Frank
January 26, 2026 at 4:25 pm
I was shocked to read about Melanie’s death. I worked with her at the VA a few years ago. She was so easy to work with and so supportive. My sympathies to her family. Melanie was far too young to be taken from them.