Major Allen DeMello

RICHARD ALLEN DeMELLOAge 65, unexpectedly returned to Heaven, Thursday, July 5, 2012. Rick was a native of Dighton, MA, but called Albuquerque, NM home since 1995. He served in the US Air Force in Korea and was a veteran of Operation Desert Storm. He retired after 20 years of service from the Air Force Reserves. He worked for the Air Force in civil service until his retirement in 2005. Since that time, Rick has been involved with various volunteer organizations, including NARFE, ROA, ASMC, and the New Mexico Veterans' Memorial. He has also enjoyed traveling with his beloved wife of 33 years, Claire. Rick's love of life, sense of humor, boisterous laugh, bear hugs, and sensational mustache will be wholeheartedly missed, but fondly remembered by all those whose heart he touched. Rick is survived by his wife, Claire, and their children: Jennifer DeMello Peña and her husband Carlo, Richard DeMello and his wife Eileen, and Mark DeMello and his fiancé Konnie. Rick was the cherished Grumpa of Hugh Richard and Aiden Ramiro, and the adored older brother of Janet Lapointe and husband Bill of Swansea, MA, Joyce DiBona and husband Tom, Holly deMelo and husband Jim, and David DeMello and wife Shirley of Dighton, MA. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Mary DeMello of Dighton, MA. Although we are heartbroken to lose such a remarkable man, we hold strong to some of his wisest words: Have fun! If you're not having fun, you're doing it wrong. Friends and family may visit on Wednesday, July 11, 2012 from 6:00 p.m-7:00 p.m. at French - Wyoming Chapel. A Wake service for family and friends to come together and share stories of Rick will begin at 7:00 p.m. Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 12, 2012 with Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 12500 Carmel NE. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rick's honor to the New Mexico Veterans' Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108.