Melody M. Smichko, of Clarence, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the age of 68 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Her strength and determination to live will leave a legacy of love and resilience that will forever inspire her family and friends. Born on June 15, 1956, in Lock Haven, she was the daughter of the late Christian and Thelma (Davy) Heverly.
Melody was married to her high school sweetheart, Douglas, for 52 years. While raising her family, Melody supported Douglas as the proprietors of Smitchko Tool & Die Inc. Over the 50 years of Smitchko ownership, the company has employed over 600 skilled workers. Melody was very grateful for the opportunity to meet and work alongside so many wonderful employees, customers, suppliers, and company affiliates.
Melody’s true joy in life was spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and especially spending time in Florida with him and their many friends. She was very engaged with, and provided generosity, guidance, and support to her grandchildren whom she loved deeply. She would embark on new trips and adventures with each of their best interests in mind, and her impact on their lives will be carried with them forever.
When Melody wasn’t traveling, you would find her caring for her cat Sammie, filling her bird feeders, planting her beautiful flower gardens and decorating her numerous Christmas trees during the holiday season. She was always more concerned about those around her than herself. Her presence and smile will be deeply missed by all.
Melody is survived by her loving husband, Douglas M. Smitchko, Sr; her children Doug Smitchko, Jr. of Clarence, Kristine Langer and her husband, Mark, of State College; her cherished grandchildren Hunter, and wife Summer Smitchko, Katelyn Smitchko, Hannah, Zane, & Taylor Langer; her great grandchildren Tiven and Kinley Brown and her siblings, Jane Petuck of Bellefonte, Rhonda Neff of Julian and Bonnie Peters and her husband, Dale, of Beech Creek.
Along with her parents, Melody was preceded in death by her stepmother, Anne Heverly and a sister, Sally Confer.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at Queen of Archangels Catholic Church in Clarence, PA at 11:00 am with Father Lubomir Strecok and Father Michael Wolfe officiating. All are welcome to attend the service and celebrate Melody’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Research Foundation, pancan.org
The family would like to thank all the support received from family, friends, and coworkers. Also, a special thanks to all the caregivers, hospital staff, and her Oncologist at Johns Hopkins for their efforts, care, and dedication.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc in Snow Shoe, PA. An online guest book can be signed, or you may post your condolences to the family at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com