Melanie DiVasta's Memorial Bench

On Boston's coldest night in more than a generation, Melanie DiVasta - a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, and friend - tragically did not make it home. She passed away peacefully, only minutes from her home, on a bench in Christopher Columbus Park. For Melanie's 25 years living in Boston's North End, however, Christopher Columbus Park was a place that brought her joy. It was her favorite spot in Boston, in fact. Melanie's friends and family knew it was where she'd sip a Dunkin iced coffee and watch the boats pass in the summer, and admire the Custom House clock tower through the blue lights of the archway at Christmastime.

Melanie was taken from those who love her far too soon at the age of 47. Yet someone is only truly gone when you stop remembering them. Our goal is to memorialize Melanie at her favorite place with a bench sponsorship in her name.

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park are making this possible for $5,000 for a bench plaque that will never expire. This is less money than typical for a longer duration, and we are deeply grateful for their kindness and generosity.

Any funds raised above what is needed for the bench sponsoring will be donated to the Merrimack Valley Feline Rescue Society in Salisbury, MA.

Our goal is to raise the funds by June in order to dedicate the bench around the time of her birthday in late August. On behalf of our entire family, thank you for helping to make this possible.