Feb 10, 2023

Rita Trafton Melson, 75, of Canonsburg, passed away peacefully, in her home, Sunday, February 5, 2023. She was born in Minneapolis, Minn., the oldest daughter of the late Harold and Rita Crothers Trafton.

Rita was dearly loved by her partner of 22 years, John “Jack” McConughay; and two daughters, Wendy (Doug) Talmonti and Tracy Melson. She is survived by her grandchildren, Crystal (Mike) Hopkins, Melissa (Shane) Kelley, Dylan McMonagle, Meghan Kelley, Jakob McMonagle; along with her great-grandchildren, William, Dominick, Elizabeth, Theresa, Christopher; and her siblings, Harold, Marvin and Mark Trafton, and Nan Trafton Carstens, and the late Steven Trafton.

While Rita’s family grieves their loss, they are choosing to remember her in a way that honors her spirit. Rita had a great love for her cats and aiding orphaned cats/kittens as well as supporting Native American Indian culture.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of her beloved charities: Fix ‘Ur Cat at Fixurcat.org/howtohelp; St. Labre Indian School at stlabre.org; or St. Joseph’s Indian School at stjo.org/culture.

A viewing will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., the time of a blessing service, Monday, February 13, in SALANDRA FUNERAL and CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Joseph P. Salandra LFD, owner / supervisor, 304 West Pike Street, Canonsburg, 724-745-8120. All are welcome. Interment will be private.