Ret. Lt. Col. Michael David Melendez

Retired LTC Michael (Mike) David Melendez- Born January 26, 1960 in Franklin, Kentucky to Hector and Jeanne Melendez. Mike went to be with the Lord, September 8, 2021 with his beautiful family at his side. 

Mike was raised in a military family and lived in various places all over the world growing up. Mike played sports throughout high school, was an All-American Baseball Player and active in the Performing Arts into his adult life. He graduated from Texas A & I Kingsville, then taught Science and coached football in Wylie, TX prior to entering the US Army. While in the military, he started a family. He was a Transportation Officer and bravely served our country at home and abroad in combat. He was deployed several times to Iraq and Kuwait and in the Gulf War. Mike continued to serve in the military in various capacities until his retirement in 2010, as a Lieutenant Colonel. After his retirement from the Army, he moved to East Texas to begin his career with Target. His love of serving others was an example of true leadership to those who knew him. His passion was leading praise and worship and proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ. His family enjoyed spending time together. His wife and children will be forever grateful for the memories of their last vacation as a family to Yellowstone Park. All who knew him will always remember his beautiful singing voice, his solid strength of character, and unrelenting faithfulness. 

Mike is survived by both of his parents, Hector and Jeanne (Gloria) Melendez. His wife Melissa, son David Melendez and daughters Glorianna Melendez and Beth Porter. He is also survived by his sisters Lynda Melendez, Jan Robinson, Marta Willoughby and brother Mark Melendez and their families. He is also survived by his grandchildren Mayes and Clark Porter.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at Funderburk Family Cemetery with John Offutt officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey & Foster Funeral Home.