Melinda G. Hannigan died of cancer on July 1, 2016 at her home in Twisp, Washington surrounded by her loving family. Her passing was peaceful. In her death she showed the same bravery and the extraordinary attitude that marked her life and her multi-year battle with the disease.

Melinda was born in San Francisco, California on April 29, 1949. Her parents were Eugene L. Gartland and Eileen (Rush) Gartland. She attended St. Stephen’s Elementary School, Mercy High School, and the University of Portland where on the first day of college she met her husband of 46 years.

Melinda is survived by her husband, Patrick M. Hannigan, of Twisp, Washington, her sons, Patrick G. Hannigan, of Twisp, Washington, and Michael F. Hannigan, of Hood River, Oregon, five grandchildren, and her sister, Jeanne Jones, of Kamuela, Hawaii. Most of her adult life was spent on Mercer Island in Washington State.

Melinda left her mark on all those who knew her. She had a fierce love for her family and friends. Her creative and encouraging sprit, her winning smile, and wicked sense of humor were with her to the end. Melinda’s glowing personality and her passionate desire to make art were the hallmarks of her life. Her favorite saying was “Attitude is (almost) everything!”

Her love of art and her drive to be what she termed a “significant” artist informed and motivated the last two decades of her life. Working in oils Melinda developed a unique style that characterized her work and earned her the nickname, “The Rust Queen.”

Melinda is remembered by her fellow artists as a mentor and a powerful motivator. She would spend hours guiding and encouraging fledgling artists in establishing paths to successful careers. Her work is in corporate and private collections throughout the United States. A comprehensive summary of her career and her art is available at www.melindahannigan.com.

At Melinda’s request, no public memorial service will be held.