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Ronald Joseph Mello
May 13, 1930 – August 22, 2021
Resident of San Jose
Ron’s peaceful passing at age 91 reunited him with sweetheart, Janet, in heaven. He was born to John and Mary (Paulo) Mello in Pleasanton, CA, then moved to San Jose during his youth. While attending Roosevelt Jr High, he was captivated by Janet, who would become the love of his life for over 69 years. Ron went on to graduate San Jose Tech, was a well-respected plumber and proud, lifetime member of Union Local 393.
After Janet and Ron married on Veterans Day in 1951 at Holy Cross Church, he served his country during the Korean War. His plumbing skills prompted him to create running water to the soldiers tents, a much appreciated luxury. He and Janet bought their first home in San Jose in the 1950s and raised four daughters. Ron and his brothers-in-law remodeled the home together, a true labor of love. Caving into the pressure of his four girls, Ron had a gorgeous pool built, and a self-made backyard oasis soon followed. The many large family events and parties held there were some of Ron’s happiest times. He was a barbecuing wizard and made the best chicken ever.
Ron selflessly volunteered his time and talents at St Patrick’s Elementary and Catholic Church during picnics and functions. He served as a Eucharistic Minister at St Francis of Assisi and as a Pastoral Minister at O’Connor Hospital. He loved to dance with Janet every chance he could get, and was nicknamed “Twinkle Toes” by his daughters for his smooth style. His devotion to his wife was an inspiration. He never stopped putting her needs first, especially after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. If ever there was a role model husband, father, Papa and friend, it was Ron.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Kay and brothers Dutch, Elwood, and Ray. Ron will truly be missed by his four daughters; Debbie Manning, Gerri (Peter) Balbiani, Natalie (Randy) Lewis, and Carleen (Greg) Rhodes; his eleven grandchildren Amber, Julia, Tony, Vince, Gina, Michael, Lauren, Randy, Jason, Lisa and Dominick; his nineteen great-grandchildren Mikie, Shane, Joel, Jemma, Mack, Hannah, Rosemary, Stella, Enzo, Dante, Mila, Natalie, Charlotte, Nolan, Hudson, Greyson, Ethan, Kira, and Ronan. Special love and thanks goes to their “fifth daughter” and loving caregiver, Mae Abesamis, their cucuzza.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Vigil Service Friday, August 27, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. at LIMA-CAMPAGNA-ALAMEDA MISSION CHAPEL, 600 S. Second Street, San Jose, with Visitation beginning at 3:00 P.M. at the above chapel. Funeral Mass Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 12:00 P.M. at St. Christopher Church, 2278 Booksin Avenue, San Jose. Entombment to follow with Military Honors at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, Santa Clara. Please, masks are required.
In lieu of flowers, Ron would be thrilled to have you donate to Janet’s Alzheimer’s Association Tribute Page at alz.org.
View the online memorial for Ronald Joseph Mello
Published by The Mercury News on Aug. 26, 2021.
