BRUNSWICK, MAINE – Melissa passed away at the Bodwell Nursing & Rehabilitation Center on March 21, 2016. She was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer on Dec. 23, 2015. In an effort to beat this disease, she consented and was approved to participate in a worldwide clinical trial to aid in the advancement of lung cancer treatment.

Melissa was born on April 13, 1979, and resided in Oak Ridge, N.J. Her parents were Thomas W. and Virginia M. (Rosenbauer) Comiciotto. At age 11, Melissa moved with her family to Castine. Melissa wasn’t initially excited about moving to Maine, but over time she appreciated growing up on Penobscot Bay.

Melissa was a graduate of Bucksport High School, Class of 1997. She continued her education and graduated from Maine Maritime Academy, Class of 2001. While attending the Academy, she was a member of the first Women’s Soccer Team. Melissa also studied for a semester at the Southampton Institute in Southampton, England. During that semester she was able to explore London and Paris.

After graduating college, Melissa moved to Freeport and began her career at Unum as a producer compensation analyst. She later worked at Bath Iron Works in several analytical and estimating roles. For the past couple of years, Melissa worked for the Brunswick School Department as a substitute teacher. This transition allowed her to spend more time with her children.

Melissa was married on July 7, 2001, to Joseph E. Valliere. Melissa was blessed with two children, Joseph Thomas and Abigail Faye. Melissa’s lasting legacy is her children. Joey and Abby brought her so much joy and happiness. Melissa will continue to guide them from Heaven.

Melissa and her family moved from Freeport in 2005 and resided in Plant City, Fla., before returning to Maine and settling in Brunswick in 2007.

Melissa enjoyed finding new recipes to experiment with her family, baking, gardening, caring for her pets, being on the water, and time with her family and friends. Melissa was also active in the community. She volunteered with Girl Scout Troop 1648, the Merrymeeting Girl Scout Service Unit, Cub Scout Pack 648, Boy Scout Troop 648, and also coached youth soccer and softball.

Survivors include her husband, children and parents; siblings: David J. Comiciotto and his wife Christine of Schwenksville, Pa., and their children Matthew, Grace, and Evan; Laura A. Kowalski and her husband John of Schnecksville, Pa., and their daughter Emily; Kathryn M. Tilley and her husband Robert of Douglasville, Pa., and their daughters Shannon and Alexandra.

Visiting hours will be held from on Tuesday, March 22, from 4-6 p.m. at Brackett Funeral Home, 29 Federal St., Brunswick. A Roman Catholic Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist, 39 Pleasant St., Brunswick, on Wednesday, March 23, at 11 a.m. The Reverend Frank J. Murray will preside.

Melissa, Joe, Joey, and Abby want to thank everyone for their tremendous support during this difficult time. Melissa believed “everything happens for a reason” and this disease was no different. We will all miss her positive attitude and beautiful smile. When we see her again, we are excited to learn why God chose Melissa at this time. Never give up on your hopes and dreams.

Melissa’s final request was that her body be donated to science to learn more about the cancer that consumed her body. After the research is completed, a private internment ceremony will be held at the Castine Town Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please celebrate Melissa’s life by donating to the
Melissa A. Valliere Scholarship Fund
Maine Maritime Academy
Development Office
Pleasant Street
Castine, ME 04420