It is my sad duty to report to the many alums who loved and respected her that Hartford Courant Graphics Director Melanie Shaffer died today.
Melanie was among the most decent, reasonable, hard-working, humble, creative and talented journalists to work at The Courant, and my friends in the building say the collective grief is so profound there that you can hear yourself breathe. She was also widely respected in the industry.
I have no details, though people in the department have promised to send them in as soon as they learn something. Of course Mel battled cancer bravely for many years. Most of us marveled at her ability to keep working and create such wonderful art while enduring such a demanding course of medical treatment.
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What a heartbreaking loss for all of us. She was a wonderful person.
Melanie was a sweetheart, a real pro who juggled a myriad of tasks with uncanny ease and good cheer even while waging her desparate battle with cancer. My deepest condolences to members of her family. Her passing only makes a very bad week at The Courant that much worse.
She was a dedicated professional. She stayed out of the fray and did her job with dignity and respect. Rest in Peace.
Her personal courage was immeasurable. My condolences to her family.
What a terrible loss. My heartfelt condolences to her family. Melanie was a superb artist, and always had a smile for her co-workers, even under the most extreme pressure. It was a pleasure to work with her and to know her. Her courage was amazing.
Melanie was always the bright spark that kept the rest of us on our toes. From the start working with Melanie made life more surprising and creative. Her love for her family, her beautiful sly humor and her kindness never ceased through all she has been through. I miss her as many many will.
Christian Potter Drury