Resident of San Jose

Melissa Dabel passed away peacefully in her home as the sun set on Friday, June 13, 2025.

Melissa Jean Dabel was born to Barbara and Walter Dabel on August 12, 1969. She and her older sister Heather had much fun growing up together in their loving family home in the East Foothills of San Jose. Melissa enjoyed playing outside, loved horses, and raised rabbits and sheep in 4-H.

Melissa brightened the lives of those who knew her with her spirit, style, wisdom, and kindness. Melissa was a proud graduate of James Lick High School and Chico State University. She worked in the fashion industry until her children came along.

Melissa’s children Chloe and Liam were her pride and joy. She raised them in Chico and enjoyed watching them grow and blossom over the years. Leaving them behind was the hardest part of dying for Melissa.

While raising her children, Melissa started her second career as a special education teacher and found her life’s work. She loved the kids in her classrooms and delighted in helping them grow. She had a talent for teaching children with special needs that will be greatly missed by her students, families, and fellow teachers.

Melissa met Lance, the love of her life, on New Years Day 2022. Their love brightened her days and sustained her during her illness. The two of them savored life together and were almost never apart. Melissa and Lance were engaged at sunset on the rim of the Grand Canyon on New Year’s Eve. They ran out of time for marriage but were able to live the vows.

Melissa had friends who were like sisters. She had a sister who was a true friend. She kept her mother and father close in her heart, even after they passed. She had children she adored. Animals loved her and she was surrounded by her pets throughout her illness.

Melissa is survived by her children Chloe Anne Davis (partner Sage) and Liam Jackson Davis (partner Laila), her sister Heather Hignite (Dennis) and nephew Corey, and her fiancé Lance Martin with his children Chase and Spencer. She is also survived by loving aunts and uncles, cousins, extended family, and a large network of friends.

A celebration of Melissa’s life is scheduled for August 2 at a location to be announced on the Darling Fischer tribute page for Melissa.