Jeffrey Melton Obituary

Dearest Jeff,

I cannot believe you are gone one year. You were the love of my life and I miss you so much I want to Die. I hope I will one day see you again and put my arms around you. I love you soo much I want to die without you in my life. You will be in my heart until the day I die. No one loves you more than me. I love you, I love you, I love you.

Auntie Hopie

jeff.. i can't believe it has almost been a year! There has not been a day that i haven't thought about you or wanted to call you! you made my sit summer amazing, and you were such a great friend! i love you so much!!

*once a sit, always a sit*

Jeff, just thinking about you as I often do. My grandmother passed away recently and the priest said something to me that really struck a chord. "It's not goodbye. That word comes from the phrase, 'God be with you, until we meet again."

To Jeff's family, if you should read this I want you to know that Jeff will never be forgotten in the memory of his friends.

Pascha, Gene and Hope:



I'm so sorry for your loss. Although I hadn't seen Jeffrey over the years I remember him as a little guy. Linda would always take him with us to go places and Bill would be his bud. I remember a sweet little boy and I really missed out not getting to see him again before he left so soon. God Bless all of you.



Love,

Toni

It's already been weeks and I still dream that your with us at our reunions from Mac and Hersey. You made me laugh in 6th grade with your dictionary wars with tony and aaron. You made me get "mad" at your when you'd poke me in the halls and you'd tutor me in science class the day before the test. We opened up a frog together in 7th grade and we were partners! I remember when you sprayed your hair white and i just laughed and smiled at you when you said"what areyou looking at?" You made the group calmer when we fought while working on our dance for the 8th grade talent show! You put me in my place when i became too upset. You had the lowest voice in the choir. You made me feel that original was better when i talked to you and when you wore a towel over your head, as a skirt, and as a cap! You always made me feel special and appreciated. Freshman year we talked online and you gave me some great advice and then the next morning volunteered to help me paint my house! I still get sad when i see the pink paint(that you made fun of) that you put so much work into! I was always so happy to give you rides home or talk to you in the halls. You never forgot about me in high school you always said hi, poked me, or smiled and acknowledged me. I saw how you wonderfully you treated girlfriends(in particular lara) and i saw how wonderfully you danced (when you danced with me at the freshman dance while all eyes were on us. yet you didnt steal the spotlight!) i'll never forget you and all the numerous things you did for me. "FEEEE... mur!" I'll never forget you, I'ved always cared, respected and love you. I'll miss you soo much and you'll always be in my memories. You were loved by sooo many people I'm so glad you came into this world!

Jeff, I know I haven't talked to you in about a year, but I think that I got to know you pretty well, through the sports we did together. I had the privelege of being not only your teammate, but your friend. I think I speak for everyone on the team when I say that. The reason it took me so long to sign this thing is because I just didn't know what to say. All I can speak of is the unshakeable character you had in my mind. No matter what happens, I will always remember you in that light, and I think it's rightfully so. You deserve it.

Jeff~

I know I haven't been the best friend to you these past couple of years. I feel terrible for that, especially since you tried so hard to keep in touch. You have always held a special place in my heart. You and I shared a bond that not many people are blessed enough to find. And I will always cherish the many memories you gave me. It was an honor and a priveledge to be one of your numerous friends. I will always love you. God bless you, Jeff. May you rest in peace.



"Reminiscing our love as I watch four seasons change."

jeff, Looking back on years of memories filled with

laughter, love and tears and I am at a loss of words to

describe how much you meant to me and to every person whose

heart you touched. From getting "asked out" by you in the

pool in Habo to being lucky enough to be the one cheerleader

who knew the 20 year old on the opposing football team and

even to waking up and finding you on the couch just a few

short weeks ago, your memories live on not only in my heart

but in the heart of camp chi. You are an amazing individual

with more charisma and character than most people can hope

for. I miss you more than words can say and will never

forget your last words to me ...you'll always be

in my heart, love you baby

Jeff -

I will never forget how much fun you always made onstage for me. I will never forget your contagious smile or how if I was in a bad mood you could easily snap me out of it. I am so glad to have known you and you were a friend that was usually on my mind. Now you're on my mind and in my dreams even more. I can't change what has happened, but I would give anything to spend just an hour with you and to laugh and enjoy life, what you always helped people do. My heart goes out to everyone that knew Jeff because it is a great loss for all of us. I love you Jeff, always have, always will.

Even though we didn't hang out very much, I felt like we had such a great relationship. Your had such a love for music and such a beautiful talent. You could make me laugh anytime, anyday. As much as it hurts to say goodbye to you, I have the fondest of memories to look back on. We all loved you Jeff. You were so loved..



RIP.

Jeff, we only hung out a few times here at western and back home, it was always fun. I'm going to miss you. Your positive spirit and contagious smile always lightened the room. I will never forget you, rest in peace.

Though I didn't know Jeff very well at all, I'll never forget the day he came into tech class with the contrabassoon. He was the only one who got to play it; only he could make that instrument quite so amusing. Thanks for the memory, Jeff.

Jeff you were an amazing friend and an awesome co-worker. Every night at Camp Chi was more fun and interesting because you were there. I remember when you put out Skrappy's and my towering inferno. I passed you by and said hi, on my way somewhere else. You ran off, and when I looked back you had just put out our fire. Realizing what had just happened, I was momentarily angry and then seized by uncontrollable laughter. I will always remember you for your ability to make people laugh and smile. You made a difference in my summers, and for that I thank you.

Jeff you were a true friend to me as we both started together at Western in music. You made it joyous and fun in moments are great stress. You are severly missed but we know you are doing well. I pray for your family. God Bless

"It's not unusual to be loved by anyone...." because Jeff, you were loved by EVERYONE. All I keep hearing is your Tom Jones solo in my head. You always knew how to make the ladies swoon. When I think back to my days in On Stage and choir you are a distinct part of those memories. In the worst of days, you always had a way of putting a smile on my face. There was something about you, Jeff. You made people feel special and important. I will always hold on to these memories.



My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends during this difficult time. Jeff, you will always be remembered as a person with a lively spirit, a contagious laugh, and a beautiful soul.

I will forever remember jeff and his goofy comments and jokes that were too funny. You were my husband in My Favorite Year, and one of my best buds in choir! We teachers aiding together was the highlight of my day! i will never forget him, his goofy smile and his love for music will be with me for the rest of my life and i wouldn't have it any other way! rip jeffy

Jeff-

It hurts so much that have to say goodbye to you. I would give anything if I could have just one more minute with you and your crazy sense of humor, beautiful voice, and your amazing spirit.

I was convinced for the first two weeks of my 6th grade summer that you were a counselor, but I got to know you better and soon came to realize you were just one big kid with an even bigger heart.

As the years went on we got closer, and every year on the first day of camp I could count on you to pick me up and give me a huge hug.

We have far too many memories to count but i'll never forget just sitting with you and talking on the NOAR deck, or the amazing Jeff Melton back massages.

The thing that really brought us together though, was our SIT play. You and me worked together for hours a week and I'll never forget those times. Singing "can you feel the love tonight" (Thanks for not getting too mad at me for breaking into uncontrollabe laughter everytime), or when I had to push over a chair and ask you "If you wanted to talk about it." These are the times I look back on and cant help but to laugh or cry.

I went to sit shiva with your unbelievable family and I am so happy to know how much love you were surrounded with.

Spartacus I love you so much and we will never forget you. Our Flying V can never be the same without our Spartacus, but the SITS fly together- always.

Love Stef

Jeff-

I feel blessed to have worked with you on the A team last year. Me and you became really close and it was truly worth it. The saying goes, A friend will bail you out of jail, a best friend will be there with you saying,"dude that was insane". For 9 weeks you were my best friend and ill never forget the things you taught me and the memories we shared. Work was never boring because you were 20 feet away from me at the bike shack. you were the most talented guy i have ever met, and always made me laugh.



To everyone else..

Hold on to the memories, because its all you've really got.

Jeff, You will always remain in my thoughts. I wont forget hastily finishing Diction tests just to go grab some tots at the union. We should have been closer and that is regret that I now will live with. R.I.P. forever.

I cant help but think of you whenever i hear a Sinatra song. Theres just a picture of you snapping your fingers and singing along. I only knew you for the 9 weeks of camp we had together, but we chilled every single night....nights on chef gil's porch, rides down shady lane, the duck tape party. I will have these stories to tell forever, i just wish i could laugh about them with u just one last time.

Jeff,

You were such a friendly guy, I am so glad I was able to spend my summers with you at Camp Chi. You made always made Mountain Biking so much fun. You made Camp an awesome place. I loved when you sang the "Walkin' in Delton", whenever I think of camp I think of the song and how great of a singer you were. You were a really nice cool guy and the spirit of Camp Chi. We will miss you.

Your friend,

Wayne Brin

SIT 2005

I didn't know you very long, Jeff...but I felt we made a connection ...ever since that day here at WIU in voice studio when I had to serenade you, I knew we would be friends....your brilliant smile, non-stop jokes, and vibrant spirit will live on in us all...I'm only sorry I couldn't know you for longer and that you will never get to do the things that all of us will get to do...I'm sure you know that you've made us realize that life is not something you take for granted...To Jeff's family, he will not be forgotten and has affected everyone's life positively...if only more people were like Jeff, this world would truly be a better place...Jeff, Fly strong and I'll see you again.

Love,

Kiwi Herron

To Jeff's Family and Friends,



I go to Western and I am a music ed major. I lived just two doors down from Jeff and I designed and made his wolf costume for the traveling opera.



The first time I can remember seeing Jeff was when he came and auditioned here last year...actualy I heard him first and was impressed by the beautiful voice that was comming from him! Every day I would see Jeff in our hall way and he would always say "hey" and "how are you" and flash his big wonderful smile that he was always willing to share with you! Jeff was also in my voice studio and I got to see him in rehersals for the opera. He was always so anamaited when he sang and in life and always cracked funny jokes...he could always make the room laugh! One thing that ALWAYS made me smile was comming back from classes and getting to my room and being able to hear Jeff singing his heart out in the shower...almost always a Sinatra song...that I am going to really miss!



To Jeff's family and friends I just want to say that I am so deeply sorry for your loss and that I send my heart and my love to you! I will miss Jeff and I know you do too! Much love!



In His name,

Will Barnhart

Jeff-

this past summer at chi had some good times. we became pretty close, and I'm upset that we never got to talk after the summer was over. I really miss you. I'm glad I had gotten to know you better over the summer. you always made activities fun and we all had the best time coming to it. keep walking in delton, and I'm thinking of you. R.I.P



-Courtney

Spartacus,

I couldn’t bring myself to write anything because I couldn’t believe what had happened. Every summer I was at camp you were there too. When we were younger you were always entertaining all your friends and making us laugh. When we were SITs you got to do the same for your campers and eventually the whole camp with your lead role in the play. When we were staff you got the opportunity to know so many campers because you were a specialist. My campers would come back from Mountain Biking and would talk for hours about how cool and cute you were. You had so much sprit and such a big heart and anyone that knew you even for a second knew this. Just a few weeks a go you took a trip to U of I and I got to see you, after my roommate met you for a just a short time she could tell that you were a really great guy. I know that you can never physically be here again but your sprit and memory lives on.

Jeff~

I only talked to you a few times this summer at Chi, but in those few times you always managed to put a smile on my face. In fact, you always had a smile on your face, too. You were known to everyone at camp and made everyone feel special. When we heard of your passing it felt like Chi had lost a member of its family. You were Camp Chi and taught past, present, and future SITs how to be and as an upcoming SIT of '06 we will use you as a guideline of how to treat the campers. You will never be forgotten and Camp Chi will never be the same. You will live on forever at Camp Chi.



From a current SIT '06 to a past SIT '03,

Jeff-



Every person that knew you, saw something special in you. When i first met you 3 yrs. ago, while you where a S.I.T., you changed my soph. yr. in Noar for the better. Last yr. during my JC summer, it started out rough, but as i was leaving to go home for the 1st time, you gave me a hug and told me i'll see you hear soon. and when i finally came back, you where one of the 1st people i saw at camp. and you told "I told you i would see you soon, it just took 3 1/2 weeks!!"

When ever we hung out, it was always fun. whether it be getting into a car accident with ethan and i or just talking in the staff lounge and telling stories, you where always funny.

you where a talented young person. a great smile, great sense of humor, great voice and great personailty.

I know you will be looking over every single person that you touched. Camp Chi will never be the same without you there speading your joy and happiness.

See you later Jeff

Jeff Melton was my voice student for two years at John Hersey High School. He was one of those kids who always knew how to put a smile on my face. As a student for me he worked exceptionally hard and took his lessons very seriously. I was always very fond of Jeff and looked forward to seeing him each week. I was the most proud of him when he worked so dilligently to learn his music for college auditions. No matter what the challenge was, even memorizing art songs in German, he grabbed the bull by the horn and made himself overcome the challenge. He proved how much singing was important to him, and how he was starting to build some direction in his life. I was equally as proud of Jeff when he sang the duet of "It Praying Were Horses" with Jennie Lahlum during Black History Month for the entire school. He had a unique passion in his voice that could stir tears from many. Jeff always worked hard to prove that he could be somebody special, and I was very proud to be along for the ride of his successes. However, Jeff didn't have to prove that he was special at all. He was naturally special, and had a very uniquely welcoming and inspiring presence that everyone could see. I'm very saddened by the news of Jeff's sudden death. He was a student that made an impact in my life like so many do. I look at my students as gifts, and Jeff was one of those gifts. I will miss my student Jeff Melton greatly. My heart goes out to his family and close friends in this tragic time.

The summer of 2000 was my first as a Camp Chi counselor. I walked into my cabin to meet my campers and the first person I met was Jeff. I shook his hand and said, "I'm looking forward to working with you." He just looked at me with a very confused face. I then asked if he had been staff here before, and it was at that point that he let me know that he was not my co-counselor but one of my campers. I was shocked. His bicep was the size of my thigh. To say the least I was a little intimidated, but after a few days Jeff had put my worries to rest. He used his maturity and popularity in becoming a positive leader in the cabin. Anytime I was having difficulty managing my campers Jeff would step up for me and control the situation. Jeff was the camper that every counselor prays to have. In the summers that followed I watched Jeff develop from a terrific camper into a great staff member. This past summer as a supervisor at Chi I found myself in a tight spot again, and just as he had as a camper, Jeff bailed me out. We were short staffed and Jeff, on top of his responsibilities as the mountain biking specialist became one of my senior counselors. Jeff worked twice as much as any other staff member at Chi and never complained, because I know he loved every second of it. Jeff’s ability to work with kids was magical. His presence alone brought a smile to all of the campers’ faces. Jeff and I became great friends during these past five summers and I’ll always remember him for his humor, smile, devotion, and his great big heart. We’re gonna miss him greatly.

To Jeff's family and friends:



I was Jeff's private voice teacher at WIU in Fall, 2005. Jeff was such a talented young man.



Jeff understudied the Big Bad Wolf in our Opera on Wheels production of Little Red Riding Hood. When he began to sing the Wolf's music, he was transformed. Jeff was one of those amazing singer/actors who truly became a character. He inhabited the role.



I felt like I never really knew Jeff. We did not have enough time together to really build a close student/teacher relationship. That is something I will always be sorry to have missed.



It is easy to tell, from the pages of entries, that Jeff was loved throughout his life and touched many. He will live on in our hearts at WIU.



Lynn Thompson

Assistant Professor of Voice

Western Illinois University

Jeff-

Ever since I can remember you were the essence of Camp Chi. It didn't matter if you knew someone or not, everyone knew you. Your presence lit up a room and your humor made everyone in ear shot laugh hysterically. You were kind to everyone and we all loved you. So many of my greatest memories of Chi revolve around you. I remember when you would chug a pitcher of bug juice everyday at lunch like clockwork and everyone in the dining hall would cheer you on. I remember your spirit when we made up the SIT cheers in the picnic grove. I will miss you so much, and camp will never feel the same without you.

Jeff-

I'd never really been close with you before this year, and I am so happy that I was able to accomplish that this past summer. Meeting you made my summer a thousand times better. Noar, as many agree, hadn't been the greatest year last year, and Chugs weren't the best either! But i couldn't wait until I got to do mountain biking with you!! I've never been an athelete, but for the first time in a while, I enjoyed doing something physical!! I pushed my hardest just to try and keep up with you in order to hear a funny story! I remember once, i collapsed and you took unbelievable care of me. I don't know what i'd do without you! You never failed to make me laugh with your funny, almost always inappropriate, stories. And i'll miss your "boob dancing" to "Dontcha". I don't think you realize how many guys went around camp the next day attempting to do that as well! I love you Jeff, and i, on behalf of myself and everyone that knew you, will say that you changed our lives, for the best! Camp Chi will miss you! We love you jeff, rest in peace!

-Whitney

Jeff,

You were an amazing guy, and you'll be missed dearly. You would always make my day at camp so much better whether it be hanging out in my cabin, practicing volleyball, or just saying hi. The SIT family, and Camp Chi just won't be the same without you. Keep on "walkin' in Delton."

My name is Felicia Bell. I am the sister of Jeff's WIU roommate, Eric. I sincerely offer my condolences to the family. My heart and prayers are with you. And may the Lord God keep you during this loss.

To the family of Jeff Melton,

My daughter attended Camp Chi for several years. She is Jeff's age, and they were friends. She always spoke of this great guy and how he was so much fun to be around. I hope the blessing of your memories will help to ease your pain. I am very sad for you.

Helene Coorsh

Jeff~

You really were the spirit of Camp Chi like everyone says, and you will never be forgotten. You brought smiles to an infinite amount of campers and staff members, and there really was never a dull moment when you were around. Your witty and humerous personality always made me laugh, and your talented voice could even make me cry. You will always and forever be part of the SIT family, and deep in everyone's hearts. I feel blessed to have known you.

~Melissa Elegant

SIT 2004

Jeff~

i've known you since 6th grade and got to know you better in highschool. When we would see you walking down the street my mom would always make sure to give you a ride even though you would say it wasn't that far. I remember the chorus teacher at Mac told you that you couldn't sing, but then in highschool you were amazing. i'm not sure what she was thinking, or not thinking, yet she was a little odd when she'd just lay on the ground for us to be quiet. You would always make everyone happy, if it was your singing or just hearing people call you sparticus. i never really understood that but it put a smile on everyone's face.

we will miss you

I had the pleasure of getting to know Jeff a bit during the wonderful summer days in South Haven. He was friends with my daughters and spent time in our cottage. He was friendly and outgoing and always had a nice word and a warm smile. There will be a hole in the fabric of our "country" lives without him -- he will be missed.

Sincerely,

Jeryl Chico

Jeff, you were the entire spirit of Camp Chi and you will be missed greatly. I will never forget the times that I saw you biking around camp or when you practiced volleyball with the SITS. "...and I was walking in Delton..."

*~Once a SIT, always a SIT~*

Jeffy,

On my first Camp Chi “sneak out” sitting on the freezing cold sand of the cove watching Spaceballs on a sheet draped over the volleyball net, one thing saved me from pneumonia: your sweatshirt. From that moment you had my heart forever. Over the past eight years of friendship I have come to understand what an amazing and dynamic person you are. Whether it be your amazing voice in the best play ever, your spirit and attitude, or your sweaty surprise hugs at flagpole, you have never ceased to amaze me. I have heard your stories so many times that I can repeat them verbatim and yet, because you were telling them, I was always ready to hear them again. I will miss you, but I know that you are still with us. Every time Walking in Memphis is played, SITs cheer, or flagpole is done with more energy than I thought was humanly possible, you will be there with me and with all of Camp Chi. You were always a leader, I mean you wrote, starred in, and directed pieces of our play, so do what you have always done best and guide us now. You have and always will be at the front of the V and we will always be flying right there with you.

With Love,

Tracy

SIT 2003

Jeff,

you we're such an important part of my life... someone who could always make me smile with either a ridiculous joke or just a friendly hug. you we're someone who could walk into a room and create so much energy in the atmosphere and spread smiles and joy across a hundred faces at once. our countless summers at camp together were incredible, and no one could ever leave a bigger mark on Chi than you have. everyone who knew you absolutley loved you, and everyone who didn't know you wanted to. you definatley were "that guy"... that guy who could make everybody around you feel welcome and energized, that guy who always had open arms and a way to make you smile. thank you for always being there for me... you have such a kind heart and wonderful spirit, and have impacted so many lives...i'll never forget any of our crazy adventures together. i love you and miss you. watch over us baby... we're praying for you

Jeff was your name but at camp you were Spartacus. I really don’t know how you got that name maybe it was because you were the biggest person (not just camper) at camp in 6th grade. You were so big that kids our age thought you were our councilor. For how big you were your heart was bigger. You meant to so much to so many people. My first summer I worked at camp Jeff and I were the only Specialist that came out of our sit summer. Being a Specialist you would get a lot of free time in the afternoon. After the hard and tiring day of work I would always fined Jeff playing with his kids. Even at night when all the specialist were in the staff lounge watching a movie Jeff would be playing with campers and making there day. NO ONE else did that, he was incredible. I was talking to a friend the other day and she told me she was sorry about his death. I asked her if she knew Jeff and she said she only went to camp for one year and that Jeff was the only person she remembered. He is and was an unforgettable person. At Camp he was always in the spotlight and he loved it. Weather it was in 6th grade when he had the whole lunch room chanting SPARTICUS when he chugged three pitchers of bug juice than ran out side and throw it up or when he was the lead role of the sit play. Everyone at camp knew him and everyone loved him. For every time there was a Jeff Melton smile there is a Jeff Melton story. Jeff touched everyone he knew in his own special way. He was a great person and that can never be taken away. I will never forget your simile your laugh and all the wonderful time we spent together. Thank you Jeff, you have meant so much to so many and that we are truly grateful. Your friend Matt



Camp Chi will never forget you.

I don't know where to even begin, I knew jeff growing up since 7th grade id see him walking home everyday and join him since we didnt live to far from 1 another, as time went by I knew him in highschool always such a happy, nice kid to be around always singing his jazz tunes that would make anyone smile, things have all gone to fast, its hard to even believe this is true,sorry to all his family and freinds, we'll miss you jeff. may you Rest In Peace

Jeff,

As hard as it is to write this, it's twice as hard to believe the reason why. You always made me smile and i can never forget your enthusiasm and love for camp and others. As a SIT of 2005, i not only had the joy of learning all of my cheers from you, but i became a part of your family and you became a part of mine. Whenever i saw you around camp, i knew i was home. Without you, Camp Chi is missing a piece. I'll never be able to sing the right words to "Walking in Memphis" because the words that you sang will forever be with me. From a SIT of 2005 to a SIT of 2003,

*Once a SIT, Always a SIT*

Much Love

Jeff, I don't know what to say. I was truly shocked when I heard about what happened. Even though I wasn't really close with you, we still talked a little bit almost everyday. Whenever I passed the bike shed at camp, I always saw you there sitting on the couch or getting ready to ride. I also remmeber when I took mountain biking as a chug, I was the worst one there, but you were always in the back encouraging me. Even when I thought riding was impossible, you helped me push harder to catch up with the rest of the group. It's sad to know that you aren't going to be at camp this year. I'm going to miss you a lot, and I hope you are in a better place. Thank you for being a really great and funny guy, and I'm glad I met you this summer.

-Arielle

Sparticus, I dont even know where to begin. I remember seeing you for the first time at Chi and thinking what the hell is this guy doing here. Thats the kind of person you were, whether it be your smile, personality, size, voice, or color, you never fit in. Though i never took mountain biking with you, I have so many memories with you at camp that I will never forget like sitting with the sits listening to you tell crazy storys or partying with you at my hotel on my birthday. my most vivid camp memory of you was listening to you talk all about your future life plans to go o WIU and then become a teacher . you talked for twenty minutes just about everything that you knew you could do in the future. Another thing i remmeber was you lecturing me about not using drugs and keeping my life straight.I always looked up to you as a counselor and as a friend. This wasnt how you were supposed to go , but nothing in life, yours especially goes as planned. I always though of you as being invincible, there are some people who you dont even contemplate death as being a possibility. maybe it was fitting that you pass early because of how fast you grew up. you have touched my life in more ways than i can articulate. "she asked me are you a christian child, i said no, im an isrealite"- jeff melton -walking in delton.

i love you sparticus.

hey man i dont know if u remember me becasue i only talked ot u a few times at camp and i wasnt in ur age group i was jsut a camper in ur mountin biking class but i wanted to give my respects and say rest in peace

It became evident to me upon recieving word of Jeff's death how many people cared about him. I will always remember Jeff for his positive outlook on life. I can honestly say that I don't remember a time when he was anything but upbeat. He was the kind of guy that although I didn't know him very well, he would still say hi to me in the hallways and around school. He was so kind and talented, and we all miss him dearly. My prayers go out to his friends and family during this very difficult time. I was very lucky to know Jeff.

Jeff-

Words cannot express the hole in my heart that I feel right now. Your passing was truly a terrible loss for the world. If there were more people like you in the world, it would truly be like a utopia. Your laughter and heart will truly be missed. Hope you're in a better place.

Spartacus-

You were the greatest Specalist ever. I got to know you for 2 years. You were one of the funniest guys I've ever met. You brightened up my day when our counslers got fired with your jokes. I'm so glad I got to say good bye to you but I would never think it would be our last.

Love,

Salty

Jeff,



I had the pleasure of meeting you during our SIT summer in 2003, and every experience that I ever had with you was positive. You always had a smile on your face, always knew how to brighten anyone's mood, and you were always a great friend.



Our SIT summer, you completely made our play with your charisma and energy on stage. I still think of you everytime I hear "Walking in Memphis" and "Summer of 69."



As a specialist, all the kids you ever worked with loved you, and you were so much more than a specialist to them. You did incredible things for Camp Chi, and you changed so many campers' lives for the better.



You were really an amazing person Jeff. I feel honored to have had you as a friend.

Jeff,



You were amazing with all of my campers at Chi and your attitude made their summer memorable. Watching you during the SIT play showed how truly amazing you are. Your smile would brighten up the darkest days while I was at camp. I hope that you rest in peace



Stephani

Alright Jeff,

Spending last summer at Camp Chi would not have been the same without you. Many happy memories of a real bouncy bubbly character with funny dancing before vollyball and hilarious songs. A absolute joy to work with.

Jeff,

At camp you were best known as sparticus. You brought spirit to everyone at camp and brought joy to everyone around you. You were such a great, down to earth guy and will be missed dearly. Camp will miss you greatly and you will always be remembered by your song, "Walkin in Delton." Thank you for the memories.

Countless times this summer I remember walking past the bike shed, and you would be there with something funny to say. And who could forget the first day of this past summer, all of the SITs of '05 standing around in a circle by the health center, all of us idolizing you as you taught us SIT cheers. You taught us what it meant to be SITs, and I'll never forget that. I'll miss you, Jeff.

Jeff

You were the nicest,most funny person I knew. You are missed so much by all of us in your SIT family. Going to Camp with you for the 5 years that I attended were the most interesting and amazing summers of my life. You were always there with arms wide open when I needed to talk and I appriate it.

My greatest condolences go out to Jeff's imediate family and his friends. Camp chi will never be the same without you Sparticus. I miss you greatly and you will always be in my heart. SIT's Fly Together!!!



Barri Epstein SIT'03

to the family and friends of Jeff.



I'm deeply in mourn for the recent loss of Jeff he made many people laugh and smile. I remember as a freshmen last year I would hear him sing were and when he wanted too. and when he had the choir concert he once told me that " theres nothing to be afriad of" anouther time was when he ran out the doors of hersey when whereing a jean skirt . he made many people laugh and put a smile on all our faces my sincere condolences go out the his family and friends he will be missed and never forgoten for he was the kind of person who made many people laugh and smile.

I am very sorry to hear about Jeff's passing. I was shocked when I got the call at school. I will always remember Jeff as the one guy I saw every day in high school that would always give me a big hug and make me smile. You just don't meet people like him every day and he made a difference in my life. I am sorry for the loss of such an amazing person.

Jeff.....



I remember when I saw first saw you at sixth grade orientation. You walked in late with your karate uniform on. Everybody was looking at you because you were the biggest kid that anyone had seen before. None of that fazed you though, you still had a huge smile upon your face. Right then I knew that I had found a friend in you. Jeff through the hard times and the easy times you always had a smile on your face. Anyone could look towards you to make their day a good one. You were a great friend to many and always will be. Jeff...my friend...you will be missed.



Save me a spot Jeff. I will see you again.....

Everyone who knew Jeff loved him, I was lucky to grow up and be friends with such a wonderful, intelligent person. My deepest sympathy to his family. His friends all miss him very much. He will absolutely not be forgotten, we all love you and miss you Jeff. I hope you rest in peace.

Jeff and his family,

I met Jeff at the beginning of the fall semester in 2005, and his smile was the one thing that stayed in my mind the rest of the day!

We shared some great times with friends, and some great talks outside of the music building.

His beautiful voice and personality will never be forgotten.

To the family,

For four years I had the pleasure to work with Jeff as his guidance counselor. He always gave me this sly smile when I would say" Mr. Melton may I see you?" His energy ,talent and charismatic personality made Hersey High School shine.

He had so many friends and faculty whose lives he enriched. Booker T. Washington once said "A sure way for one to lift himself up is by helping to lift someone else" . Jeff did this for many,

Hi, Jeff

Man I dont know if you remember me, but we went to Camp Chi together many years ago during your Noar year and I also believe Habonim. I will always remember you as being an amazing singer during all of the talent shows that we would participate in together. Camp Chi will always remember you.

Sincerely,

Max Lerman

My sincere condolences to Jeff's friends and family. I will always remember the life and energy that a uniquely gifted and talented Jeff Melton added to so many Hersey activities. I close my eyes and see Jeff singing and dancing. I mourn and am deeply saddened by Jeff's untimely passing.

"The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living."

Jeff im glad we got the chance to be good friends at school. We had some great times together and they will never be forgotten. Even though we only meet each other this year, it felt like we have been friends for years. I'm going to miss you greatly, but will never forget what a great guy and friend you have been to me. R.I.P.

Mr. Melton as I affectionately called you,



I have known you since you were twelve years old, by far the biggest and the only 12 year old with a five o’clock shadow, and I proudly watched you grow into man.



It was my greatest honor to watch you grow up over the years and work with you this summer.



I know all of us will keep your spirit alive by passing on the same joy and passion you so graciously gave to us.



You are loved and you will be missed,



David Berkley

I remember Jeff as a vibrant, athletic, funny student at MacArthur Middle School. Memories are of him dancing on the stage in the dance unit, helping other students in the football unit, and working with him on the track team. "Too Easy Drill Sergeant!!"



Mrs. Burnett

Jeff,



I’m no poet and won’t try and express how I feel with rhyme, as that would not do it justice, but I will try.

I knew you for 3 months during my time at Camp Chi in Wisconsin.

We met when we joined the Athletics Staff for the Summer of 2005.

During those 3 months I got to know you, and grow to love that infectious smile of yours, and your genuine love of life and enthusiasm for the kids and the genuine person that you are. I knew you through good times and bad, hard work and chill time. And in all in that time one thing stood constantly.

You shined, what more can I say. For all those that knew you at Camp and those who worked with you in the “A” Team, they know what I’m talking about……..your inner light just shined bright.

You are one of the most giving people I have ever met, without ever asking for a thing in return, and I will always remember the conversation we had at dinner one night, all those months ago.



I only wish I could be there in person to pay my respects, but to Jeff’s family I would like to say thankyou for blessing this world with your gift of Jeff, and allowing Jeff’s light to shine on the world for the time that it did.

No words could ever describe how I feel right now but you will always be in my thoughts brother and in my heart, always.



Goodbye my friend, we love you.

Watch over us, and keep that light shining. God bless.

Gone too soon.



Darren Clarke

Athletics Staff 2005

Camp Chi, Wisconsin

To Jeff's friends and family-

Jeff was a wonderful friend to me in middle school, and he was one of those few people who could walk into a room and be easily accepted by everyone. I think that the best way to describe Jeff, in my opinion, is "dynamic," but this proves to be an understatement when I think of all of Jeff's talents as an athelete, musician, and student. He was truely a remarkable person, and most of all, he was such a great friend. My family (who knew Jeff) and I were deeply upset to hear the news about Jeff's passing, and we really do keep all of you in our hearts during this time.



And to you, Jeff-

Thanks for being such a great guy and always making me laugh. I'll never forget that in 8th grade you were the smartest kid in my reading class. To say the least, you were ahead of your time. I will think of you often, and you will forever be in my heart. I know you're in a better place.

Jeff-

I'm gonna miss you buddy. we had some really good times together. whether it be sitting in the staff lounge talking and chilling or getting into a car crash with ethan, you truely where the best. you where one of the few people at camp chi who had "THE REAL CAMP CHI SPIRIT"!! and everyone is gratefull for that. you always brought a smile to the campers and even the staff. you truely will be missed.



Jacob Cohen~S.I.T. of '04, "once a SIT always a SIT" family for life

Watch over all of us Jeff, WE ALL WILL MISS YOU

It was a pleasure and an honor to have known you Jeff. After almost 4 years of watching you at Hersey in Jazz Band, wrestling, gymnastics and countless other activities, as well as picking you up and giving you rides on crummy cold days, it is hard knowing we won't be able to see what other great things that may have happened for you here on earth. We all will miss you here Jeff and are happy for the time we knew you, but sad there won't be more to come.

im incredably shocked by his death, and im going to miss him so much. i'm very glad i'm going to be home in time for his funeral.

we'll all miss, he was such an amazingly wonderful friend. we could always count on him being the smiling singing guy to come around the corner in between periods during school. i was a close friend with him in school, and i'll miss him so much!! im very sorry!

Sparticus-

Baby boy...I dont even know where to start...All I know is that you are missed so bad right now. You were just about the sweetest and most pleasant person to be around. You truely did brighten up those cloudy days at camp with your ambition and free spirit. You had this gift of spreading joy and comfort to all of those around you. Your smile alone could simply melt away any worry. You were that person that everybody knew and loved deeply. Im going to miss spending my summers with you at camp chi, and you will forever be remembered at that place. Jeff, you have impacted so many lives for the better and I thank you for that. I thank you for always being such a good friend. I love you more than anything and I hope you rest in peace. Never forget.

***ONCE A SIT...ALWAYS A SIT***

love,

Rebecca Keene S.I.T. 2005

jeff, im gonna miss you so much, i met you at chi several years ago and you taught me so much. i looked up to you in so many ways. you always put a smile on my face, made me laugh, and was always there for me when i needed a friend. im going to miss you so much. rest in peace jeff. watch over all of us. SITs fly together...

all of my summers wouldnt have been so special and memorable without you at camp...i hope youre walking delton, sparticus. i love you and i miss you

once a SIT, allways a SIT

Jeff, I love you man you were like an older brother to me. You taught me things I never thought I could learn at camp. The summer will never be the same with out your humor and love to brighten my day. You will be missed by all that knew you. And all of the people in this world that will never know the warmth you bring it is a sad loss for them. I will never forget you Jeff, you will always be in my heart. And I know you will be watching over me like you always did at camp. With all my love
-Sam Besser S.I.T. '05 family for life