Melissa Ann Cowles, 49, died November 4, 2022, at Hospice House Hutchinson, after a valiant fight with cancer. She was born March 14, 1973, in Great Bend, to Edward and Darlene (Doonan) Stoss.

Melissa graduated from Hoisington High School in 1991. She then attended dental school through the American Red Cross at Carswell Air Force Base.  Melissa worked as an account manager for the family business, AnswerLink of Kansas for over 20 years. In her spare time, Melissa enjoyed camping, riding four-wheelers, spending time at the river, and enjoyed reading.  Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, friends, and dog, Lucy.  Melissa was a devoted wife, daughter, mother, sister, aunt, and friend.  She was a member of Church of the Holy Cross, Hutchinson.

On April 29, 1995, she married Patrick John Cowles, in Hutchinson.

Melissa is survived by: her husband of 27 years, Patrick; daughters, Morgan Cowles and Mallory Cowles; son, Caden Cowles, all of Hutchinson; mother; Darlene Stoss; brother Jerry (Dana) Stoss, all of Hoisington; sister, Michelle (Keith) Kultgen of Sulphur Springs, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and a host of friends.

She was preceded in death by:  her father, Edward Stoss; sister, Melinda Stoss; and brother, John Stoss.

Parish Rosary will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 11, 2022, with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 a.m., both at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson, with Father Aaron Spexarth officiating.  Inurnment will be 12:00 p.m. Saturday, November 12, 2022, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Cemetery, Hoisington.  Cremation has taken place.  Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Cancer Council of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.