Melissa M. Rhein, age 40 of LaPorte and formerly of Portage passed away Friday, November 22, 2024. She was born on December 30, 1983, in Palos Heights, Illinois to Timothy and Linda Rhein. She was a 2002 graduate of Portage High School. She worked in customer service and enjoyed fishing. Her greatest joy in life was her family and she cherished being a mother. She will always be remembered as a loving mother, daughter, sister and aunt.

She is survived by her children, Hailee Reed, Lucas Stepherson, Lincoln Elkins, Amelia Elkins and Brynlee Elkins; her boyfriend, Michael Elkins; parents, Timothy and Linda Rhein; brothers, Justin (Chelsea) Rhein, Erik Rhein; and numerous nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

Memorial visitation for Melissa will be held Friday, November 29, 2024, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.