Rudolph “Rudy” Mello, 93, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2017. The 11th child of Portuguese immigrants, Manuel and Virginia Mello, Rudy was born on January 14, 1924. Growing up in Oakland, Rudy was active in sports as one of CYO and McClymond High School’s star baseball players. Soon after, drafted during WWII, Rudy served in the European Theatre including but not limited to the Battle of the Bulge. Shortly after returning from war he met Antonina “Lee” Bruno. They celebrated married life together near 62 years, when Lee went home to be with the Lord in 2009. Rudy had a zest for life whose character traits included unconditional love, devotion to family and friends, and a sense of humor that lifted everyone’s spirits. His passions included family, appreciation for the arts and travel.
Rudy is survived by his daughters, Michele Mello-Gonzales and son-in-law Ray, Diane Mello and Valerie Paredes, his three grandchildren, Raelene Bell (husband, Les), Lisa Halbach, and Lenny Petersen (wife, Mandy), 10 great-grandchildren and 1 great- great granddaughter. In addition, he is survived by his three “younger” sister-in-laws and an abundance of nieces, nephews and friends. His kindness, unconditional love and unwavering loyalty to everyone will be greatly missed.
Please join our family in a celebration of Rudy’s life on Sunday, May 14, 2017 at Grissom’s Chapel, 267 E. Lewelling Blvd, San Lorenzo. Visitation will be 5 pm to 8 pm with the vigil service beginning at 6 pm. The funeral mass will be Monday, May 15, 2017, at 10:30 am., St. Felicitas Church, 1662 Manor Blvd., San Leandro. Burial with military honors will follow at Lone Tree Cemetery, 24591 Fairview, Hayward.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rudy’s name to the San Leandro branch American Legion, VFW or Wounded Warriors.