Hector S Melendez, Sr.

Hector S Melendez, Sr.  80, of Worcester passed away surrounded by loving family Friday, March 16, 2018, joining in heaven his son & best friend, Master Sergeant Hector Melendez, Jr.  USArmy who passed away in 2012. Hector is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Gloria E. (Lopez) Melendez;  his three children, Jennifer Melendez,  Tonita Melendez,  Sean Melendez and his wife Maria, his daughter in law Lizbeth Garcia; six siblings, Eddie, Felix and Ernie Melendez, Jr., Lydia, Evelyn and Nancy Jusino; 9 grandchildren, Gina, Anthony, Ruben, Diego, Antonia, Marcelo, Talia, Kristin and Tiffany;  four great grandchildren, Nicholas, Emily, Noah and Amelia; Many nieces, nephews and extended family members.  Besides his son Hector, he is pre-deceased by his brother Julio Melendez and parents Ernesto Melendez & Juana Santana. Hector worked more than 25 years as a machinist for Rand-Whitney Corporation before retiring.   A gifted athlete, Hector loved and played baseball all his life.  He was a true Yankee’s fan, loved fishing, gardening, cooking, John Wayne movies and Elvis.  He was the Patriarch of his family and will be sadly missed. His family and friends are honored to have known & loved such a Legendary man and will treasure all the great memories of him for eternity.    Hector’s calling hours will be held Thursday, March 22nd from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  His funeral service will be held Friday, March 23, 2018 at 10:00 am in the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery