Lasting Memories

Melinda Fitch
Aug. 18, 1939-Sept. 30, 2023
Woodside, California

Melinda Bishop Fitch, a longtime resident of Woodside, died September 30th, 2023 after a long illness. She was born in Long Beach, Ca on August 18, 1939, to Walter and Doris Haggerty Bishop. She graduated from Burlingame High School and attended San Jose State. She has a son Greg Garrett from her first marriage. Her grandchildren are Emily, Scott and Nicholas Garrett. Melinda moved to Woodside and lived in the same house on Raymundo Drive for over 50 years.

Melinda married Alan Fitch in 1984 and they enjoyed travelling the world together. She was a stepmother to his children Margaret (Peg), Katherine (Kathy) and Alan Jr. For many years, Melinda ran the Filoli Garden Shop where she took a small operation into a very profitable and large business. She also managed the Easter and Christmas programs there.

Melinda was very active in the Woodside community where she was head of the Recreation Committee. She was also very active in the Woodside PTA where she organized the teacher’s lunch and was instrumental in persuading merchants to donate merchandise. She helped manage the Woodside Senior Invitational Tennis Tournament. She helped in the promotion and ticket sales of many plays produced by the Woodside Village Players.

Melinda loved collecting antiques and hosted many great dinner parties where her cooking extravagance was greatly appreciated.

In addition to her son and grandchildren, she is survived by her sister, Harrie Lydon of Denver.