Melinda Joan Surber, 67, of Sioux City, IA, passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2023, surrounded by her family. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Waterbury Funeral Service of Sioux City, 4125 Orleans Ave. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service.

Melinda was born on September 10, 1956, in Sioux City, IA to Donald and Wanda (Nicolai) Thoms. Melinda was a talented trumpet player as a child. She attended North High School and graduated in 1975. After graduation, Melinda held numerous jobs where she met lifelong friends.

Melinda moved several times, some of which included living in the Netherlands and California. She met the love of her life, Stanley Surber in 2009 and was united in marriage in 2012. Melinda loved children and spent her time volunteering as a foster grandparent. Most recently she was stationed at the Native American Childcare Center working with 2-year-olds.

She also enjoyed helping kids read in Kindergarten at Liberty and at the after-school program Beyond the Bell. Melinda was a thoughtful, giving woman; frequently giving gifts to others. She enjoyed crocheting, especially baby blankets for family members, crafting, and making cards. In the summers you would find her in her garden planting beautiful flowers and peppers. Every Christmas Melinda made sure everyone had a box of homemade treats to enjoy. Melinda was very social and especially loved spending time with her family.

Those left to honor her memory include her children: Brian (Laura) Malcolm and Erin Malcolm; grandchildren: Caelan and Kendall; sister, Laurie (Kirk) Kistner; nieces and nephew: Kara (Dan) Garcia, Kody (Kelsey) Kistner, and Kaci Kistner; and several great nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Stanley; and sister, Marguerite Thoms.