Hector Melendez Jr

U.S. Army Master Sergeant, Hector Melendez, Jr., 46 of Worcester, passed away Wednesday February 15th 2012, in his home surrounded by his loving family. Hector was born March 27th 1965, in Brooklyn, New York. He graduated from Doherty High School class of 1983 and has lived here all his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lizbeth Melendez-Garcia; his five children, Gina S. and Anthony M. Melendez both of Leominster, twins Diego E. and Antonia M. Melendez, and Marcelo L Melendez; his parents, Hector and Gloria (Lopez) Melendez all of Worcester ; two sisters, Jennifer Melendez of Worcester and Tonita Melendez of Wesley Chapel, Fl.; a brother Sean Melendez in Easton, Pa.; a nephew, Ruben Roderick; three nieces, Lymari Hernandez, Tiffany and Kristen Reinhardt. Many extended family and friends. Master Sergeant Melendez is a veteran of the Persian Gulf War Era. He began his military career by enlisting in the Massachusetts National Guard in 1983 and has served the Army as a citizen soldier in both the National Guard and Army Reserve for the past 28 years in many assignments. He was presently a Master Sergeant Drill Instructor on active duty for the 2nd Basic Combat Training Company, 2nd brigade 75th Infantry Division stationed at Ft Dix, New Jersey. In civilian life, Hector worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Youth Services the past 17 years as a youth AWOL Apprehension Officer. Hector was a member of St Paul's Cathedral. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his wife, children and siblings. They were his life's inspiration and joy. His dedication beyond his family was to his work with DYS and to serving his country. Hector embraced his Puerto Rican culture and heritage, especially his love for salsa music. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Wednesday, February 22nd from 5 pm to 8 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Hector's funeral with full military honors will be celebrated Thursday, February 23rd from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 am in St Paul's Cathedral, 12 High Street. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, Mass. 02115