HEIPLE – Melissa R. “Mel”, 58, Jennerstown, died October 2, 2020 at In-Touch Hospice House, Somerset. Born March 7, 1962 in Somerset. Daughter of Dean H. and B. Isabelle (Gilbert) Heiple. Preceded in death by parents and sister Patricia G. on May 18, 2010, who also died from complications of a dissected aortic aneurysm. Survived by sister Margi Beth married to Joe Stephens, Hagerstown, MD and nephew Daniel Dean Stephens. A 1980 graduate of North Star High School. Employed at Somerset Hospital Emergency Room as a Unit Secretary from 1987 to 2017. A member of several volunteer fire companies. Mel enjoyed working the ambulance crew at outdoor events such as the Farmers and Thresherman’s Jubilee and the races at Jennerstown Speedway. She was also an EMT Trainer. Mel carried an undiagnosed Marfan gene variant which eventually led to multiple aortic aneurysms, one dissected, and to her death from congestive heart failure. She was kind and generous, loved to give gifts and be with her work family. As a lifelong healthcare worker, Mel did not want to put her friends and family at risk of infection. Therefore, there will be no service. She requested to be cremated and will be laid to rest next to her sister Pat, maternal grandparents and parents in the Jenner Crossroads Cemetery. We encourage her friends and family to bring her flowers there. In this time of Covid, we also request her friends to gather in small groups at her favorite restaurants and share stories of her life, well lived and cut too short. She missed you all very much. Arrangements by Hoffman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Boswell. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mel’s memory may be sent to your local fire department. To express condolences or plant a memorial tree, visit HoffmanFuneralHomes.com.