Melinda Van Der Beek

Melinda (Weber) Van Der Beek, 70, of Oxford CT, passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2020. She was the beloved wife and soulmate of Jim Van Der Beek for over 46 years. Melinda was born July 1, 1950 in St. Louis. She was the daughter of Franz and Elizabeth Weber. She grew up in Harrington Park, NJ and attended the Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC after graduating from High School. Melinda was extremely creative and had many passions - teaching, dancing, kitties, performing, and most of all working with children. She taught Sunday School at the First Congregational Church of Cheshire, CT for 20 years. Best known as "Miss Melinda", she also ran her own gymnastic tumbling school, Miss Melinda & Company, in Cheshire for 27 years. Her purpose was to make every student feel special and important, with her mantra of "there's no such word as can't, only I'll try." Melinda left a piece of her heart with everyone she met. Her contagious laugh and huge smile will be missed by many. Her creative talents for her recitals, holiday decorations, themed parties, weddings, bridal and baby showers, Halloween costumes, and so many more celebrations were incredible and always left a lasting impression just like she did. She will be deeply missed by her children and grandchildren. James and his wife Kimberly, their children Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn. Jared and his wife Pati, and daughter Helena. Juliana (Sherwood) and her husband Brian Sherwood and children, Madeline, Daisy, and Jacob. Her grandchildren just loved Grammy M/Mimi! Unfortunately given these times, we won't be able to hold a traditional memorial to celebrate Melinda's life. Instead a "drive by" will be held in Oxford Greens July 17th starting at 4 PM on Putting Green Lane. Another "drive by" will be held in Cheshire, July 24th starting at 4 PM at 525 Richard Dr. If so inclined, the family would appreciate you coming by with a wave, a sign, or dropping a single flower or a note with your favorite story about Melinda as you pass by the family in her honor. In lieu of additional flowers, memorial donations can be made to St Jude's Children Research Hospital (a charity Melinda always donated to) at the following link. https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/GiftFunds/GiftFunds?px=6675536&pg=personal&fr_id=39300 Cemetery Details Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. Previous Events Drive By JUL 17. 4:00 PM (ET) Oxford Greens Putting Green Lane Oxford , CT Drive By JUL 24. 4:00 PM (ET) 525 Richard Dr Cheshire , CT