Washington - Melissa Aguirre passed away peacefully at home with her beloved husband, George, and constant canine companion, Diesel. Until the last, her daily request was her favorite iced coffee drink. Melissa, the youngest of five, grew up on Steel Lake and attended Federal Way High School. It was love at first sight after a mutual friend arranged a blind date for Melissa and George. They started married life 26 years ago in Pacific before moving to the west hill of Auburn. However, their Happy Place was their weekend beach home in North Cove. She retired in January from the third-generation family business, Small & Sons Petroleum Distributors. Melissa, and George, took great joy in crafting gifts for family and friends. But, what is missed most are her regular phone calls. She knew family news first and kept everyone up to date.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Patricia Small; nephew, Kevin Small; and in-laws, Alfredo and Carmen Aguirre. She is survived by four siblings, Terri Small (Bill Bruning), Steve Small (Kathy), Dan Small, and Doug Small (Elaine), 12 nieces and nephews and their spouses,12 grand nieces and nephews with two more on the way, plus George's brothers, Alfredo (Linda), Eduardo (Terry) and four nephews. During the last five years, her spirits were buoyed by a constant parade of family and friends through many hospital and rehab stays. Instead of flowers, please donate to a cancer charity.