Richard Melli

1963 - 2022

Melli, Richard, - 59, of Laguna Hills, CA, Richard Alan Melli, of Laguna Hills, CA and formerly of Bridgeton passed away in California on September 15, 2022 at 59 years old. He was born in Bridgeton on February 19, 1963 and was the son of Gilbert and Martha Melli. He attended Immaculate Conception Regional School in Bridgeton and graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Vineland. Richard matriculated at Ramapo College in Mahwah, NJ where he earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications. Richard moved to California and earned his MA in Communications at California State University, Fullerton. In 1987 he permanently relocated to California where he dedicated his career to being a champion for the disabled. He worked as the Vice President of Operations for Avant-Garde Communications in Orange County, CA. Richard later served as Assistant Director of Programs at the Dayle McIntosh Center for the Disabled in Anaheim, CA. Then California Governor Pete Wilson appointed and commissioned Richard to be on the CA State Rehabilitation Advisory Council. He also earned a Certificate in Leadership and Technology Management from the California Department of Rehabilitation. When The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, Rich traveled throughout California to train businesses and employers on the new laws and standards for accessibility and accommodations. He also worked with civil engineering firms and businesses to comply with the newly passed ADA guidelines. This important work paved the way for all Americans with disabilities to join the workforce and have the same freedoms and privileges. In his personal life, he married Becki, the love of his life, in 1996. They had a beautiful marriage for 26 years and created a happy life in Laguna Hills. In 1998, Rich and Becki were featured on the Emmy Nominated national TV Special with Christopher Reeve: A Celebration of Hope. The program celebrated them as a married couple and as successful professionals living with spinal cord injuries. Rich loved watching the Eagles and Phillies play and spending time with friends and family. He loved the Lord and lived in devotion and reverence to the gift of life. Rich never complained and had a smile that could light up any room. He was grateful daily and encouraged everyone to celebrate each day and have more fun. Richard is survived by his loving wife Becki of 26 years, parents Gilbert and Martha Melli of Bridgeton, one sister, Dr. Mary (Dan) Altemose of Harrisburg, PA, one brother David Melli of Bridgeton, niece and Goddaughter, Michelle McCormick Riley (Davin) of Los Angeles, CA, mother-in-law, Carolyn McCafferty of Mission Viejo, CA, brother-in-law Dr. Randy (Mary) McCafferty of Rancho Mirage, CA and nieces, Sarah, Isabella, Mary and Rachel McCafferty. He was predeceased by a brother, John Melli, in 1990 and grandparents John and Camilia Melli and Frank and Mary Gilbert. A Celebration of Life service will take place at the Compass Bible Church, 145 Colombia in Aliso Viejo, CA on Saturday October 8th. Richard cremated remains will be interred in a public graveside ceremony at Overlook Cemetery, 100 Overlook Drive in Bridgeton on a day and time which will be announced. Please refer back to Richard's obituary for that announcement.