Melissa M. Grimshaw

Melissa “Missy” Michelle Grimshaw
April 17, 1977 – December 31, 2025

Melissa passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at the age of 48, surrounded by love. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, her huge heart, and the many memories that will live on through her family and friends.

Born on April 17, 1977, in Montreal, Quebec, Melissa spent most of her life in Kitchener, Ontario, where she built her life, her career, and her family. At just 18 years old, while pregnant with her only child, she began working full-time as a Service Advisor at Stedlebauer Motors, later continuing her career at Toyota – a reflection of her strength, determination, and accomplishments that reflected her true potential and drive.

Melissa was a devoted mother and best friend to her daughter, Dreah Grimshaw, whom she shared with Dreah’s father, Robert Todorovic (stepmother Nikki Nikoloau). Their bond was deep, unwavering, and filled with love, laughter, and understanding. At times, they were more like sisters than mother and daughter, sharing a closeness built on resilience and unconditional love. Melissa worked tirelessly to give Dreah a memorable childhood – one filled with road trips, laughter, and meaningful moments that created a lifetime of cherished memories. Though they faced challenges along the way, their love for one another never wavered, and both longed for the day they could be together again. The loss of that chance leaves an irreplaceable space in Dreah’s heart, one that will forever be carried with her.

Though life did not allow her grandchildren the time together she had hoped for, Melissa deeply adored CJ Oldham (10) and Zain Grimshaw (9), who lovingly called her “Mimi.” She dreamed of being a present and loving grandmother, and her love for them was constant, unconditional, and full of hope.

She is lovingly remembered by her mother, Beverley Grimshaw, who stood by her side through every season of life with unwavering love, strength, and loyalty. Beverley was always there for Melissa, no matter the struggles, loving her deeply and unconditionally. Melissa’s heart was also profoundly shaped by Cedric Bush, who stepped into her life at a young age and was her true father in every way – providing stability, guidance, and a love that endured despite life’s challenges. She is also acknowledged by her birth father, Mario Bouvier.

Melissa was predeceased by her beloved brother Jonathan Bouvier, whose passing deeply broke her heart, and by her treasured grandparents Irene (“Nanny”) and George (“Granddad”) Grimshaw, whom she adored. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with them now, as well as with her beloved dogs Rufus, Monroe, and Marvin, who brought her comfort, companionship, and unconditional love.

She is dearly remembered by her step-siblings Jeff Bush (Jan) and Debbie Bush (Ryan), whom she both loved and looked up to, as well as Chris Bush (Hiromi). She is remembered with great love by her aunt Pam (“Aunty Pam”) Grimshaw (Mike) and cousins Sarah Elliot (Ty) and Danny Prevost (Breanne), who shared an exceptionally close connection with Melissa and loved her dearly. Melissa is also remembered by other extended family from her earlier years, who also loved her.

Melissa will be remembered by her childhood best friend Christina Restoule, her long-time friend LeeAnn Wagner, and Ashley Sealey, with whom she formed a deep and meaningful friendship during a dark chapter in their lives. Together, they spoke often of hope, healing, and wanting more from life. Ashley went on to build that better life, while remaining a loyal and cherished friend to Melissa, and someone who also holds a special place in Dreah’s heart – a bond made possible through Melissa’s love.

Melissa had an enormous heart. She did not judge others for their struggles or hardships, because she understood them. She loved deeply, fiercely, and without condition.

“If love alone could have saved you, you would have lived forever.”

In Memory & Donations

For those who wish to honour Melissa’s memory, contributions can be made to help support her daughter Dreah and her grandchildren: https://gofund.me/33a3787de

Alternatively, donations may also be made in Melissa’s memory to organizations close to her heart:

• Diabetes Canada – supporting research, education, and community programs for people living with diabetes
• Blue Door – an Ontario-based organization providing compassionate support and resources to individuals and families facing life’s most difficult circumstances

Your kindness and generosity help carry forward Melissa’s love and care for her family and the causes she cherished.

Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

A tree will be planted in memory of Melissa M. Grimshaw in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.