Ranged totemist are a lot of fun, but I have to admit that melee totemists are better. The difference in the number of melee soulmelds versus ranged ones is just huge.

Maybe you should consider something classic, like a wizard. Sure, it isn't the wildest idea, but between the roles that your group is covering and the fact you want to avoid skillmonkeys (and apparently melee)...well...I don't see too many other options.

Of course, there are more than enough PrCs to help customize it to your tastes. If you did go with a mage, what kind of abilities would you like?