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1943 - 2020

BORN

1943

DIED

2020

About

Edison High School Franklin High School

Mel Won Obituary

Mel Won August 7, 1943 - June 25, 2020 Mel Won loved his family, friends, music, golf, and the SF Giants. He was born and raised in Stockton, graduating from Edison High School and San Jose State University. Mel was a music educator for 37 years in Stockton Unified School District. Six weeks after he accepted his first teaching position, he was drafted and learned to play jazz while in the Army band. After his service, he came back to SUSD to teach, first at Fremont Junior High and then Franklin High School where he was the band director for over 30 years. He was proud to have shared his love for music with the students he taught. Mel was preceded in death by Sandra, his devoted wife of 48 years, and his parents, Conrad and Florence Won. He was father to Kecia (Rick) Won Jones, Dean (Noelle) Won, and Kyle Won, and loving Papa to Tyler and Mackenzie Jones, and Kayla, Andrew and James Won. He was the younger brother of Kaye (Deneice) Won and brother-in-law to Karen (Ron) Eng and Calvin (Janis) Wong. Mel was also a devoted Uncle and loyal friend. He will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank all of his caring friends, students, and family who have shown us love, comfort and support. Services will be private for now.

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Published by The Record on Jul. 5, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Mel Won

53 Entries

Helen Robinson

July 8, 2024

Mr. Won was tough but loving he will be missed I served under his leadership in the marching band for 3 years. C/O 92

Carla Orr Palmer

June 29, 2024

Mr. Won´s living contributions to my life as my band teacher have been profoundly impactful. He was loved and will be missed. RIP Mr. Won

Ricky Bascones

February 13, 2023

I was a student of Mr Wons from 79 - 82

He was a huge influence to the development of my musical career. I had my eyes set as a freshman to be the first bassplayer on his list of elite senior musicians awarded the Louie Armstrong award.

At the time, usually given to just 1 or 2 senior students.

I absolutely cherish his mentoring, and truly hope we can honor his passing the way he did for some of the young student musicians that passed unfortunately early in their life.

Sincerely Ricky Bascones

Raul Presas

December 11, 2020

My father was a student from 75-79 and I was a student from 94-98. "Let's see if it's luck or skill" is still one of my favorite phrases and used regularly when necessary.

Doug Spencer

November 20, 2020

Dear family of Mel

Mel and I were in the 28th Army Band together from 1966-67. I attended his and Sandy's wedding in Stockton, CA, following the army gig. He was such a character. He was always pulling a joke on someone with his funny dry humor. We would jump in his car or mine with a bunch of friends in the band and go up to have a great afternoon at the giants games. He would take us to San Jose University to several concerts . He was always striving to help us be better musicians. He was a great trombonist and musician . I have a lot good memories of my years with Mel in the band. He was appreciated and will be remembered. I am very sorry for his loss.

Doug Spencer

Edward hayes

November 1, 2020

I will miss you my friend. See you in the next life, always Khalif

Edward hayes

November 1, 2020

Me. Won was and always be like my second dad. He found a niche in all of his students and spent more time with his players than his own family. How many teachers can say you did . A handful. Mel would give his soul and all out effort to teach us kids to listen. RiP Mel, we'll get more gig in the next life my friend. KM 82-85

Clarence

October 19, 2020

Mr Won....we will miss you. You kept us out if trouble and made musicians out if us. You are family! God bless you sir, and all of the things you taught us and the experiences you showed us. My love of music is because if you!! We love you Mr Won.

Clarence Marquez, c/o 1987

Teak Underdue

August 18, 2020

Mel Won was an Amazing teacher! So much of my musical education I use today stems from the experiences I had learning from Mel. I've been a professional music producer for about 15 years & a lot of my passion is from the 4 years learning under Mel. It is hard to quantify how much we owe Mel & the Won family because it is immeasurable. I want to recognize all the lives Mel probably kept out of harms way because he ran such an amazing music program. Rest In Peace to one of the best teachers I ever had.

Joe Little

July 29, 2020

My sincere condolences to the Won family. He was a gift from God, with an unquenched passion to help others succeed. He was my favorite teacher, as well as a mentor that pushed me to be the best that I could be. Lessons learned go far beyond the band room. Sectionals, going over parts again, and again, and again, and not being frustrated because we understood the excellence he wanted us to achieve. So I would like to say thank you to the Won family for sharing such a great person with us. One last time: "Floor, Trophy, Window, Ceiling." Some of you know what I'm talking about. Much Love Mr. Won!

Patrick Meneses

July 25, 2020

Mr. Won was always kind to me and I'm grateful to have had him as a teacher and a coach. His style was to provide insightful tips while allowing for creativity and self learning as well. Going on tour, playing sporting events, playing in competitions all enriched my life and made me a better musician. I'll never forget his stories of being a working musician back in the day, nor his calm and collected demeanor. He was truly great and his spirit lives on with all of those that knew him.

Casey Lankford

July 23, 2020

My most heart-felt condolences to the Won family.

Mr. Won impacted my life in many ways as a teenager. Not just as a music mentor, but life mentor. At times Mel was like your friend, uncle, or at times like a loving father who has to discipline his children. But all with the biggest heart you will ever know. I could remember sometimes buying is band mates a burrito from around the corner while rehearsing at Franklin. Or pay a visit to your house if you were really sick. Again, not your average teacher.

I pray for all his family and those of us who mourn with them. Mr. Won was truly a legend.

Thank you Mr. Won for believing in me and giving me something to strive for in life.

I will love and miss you here on earth.

Simon Gonzalez

July 20, 2020

Mr. Won will truly be missed. I never took band class at Franklin High (Class of '96) but my dad did. My dad's name is George Ochoa and he's Class of '76. My dad played the trumpet in Mr Won's famous Jazz band. Mr. Won was also his music teacher at Fremont Middle School. My dad wants to say Mr. Won was a great teacher and he's sorry for the loss of Mr. Won and we both send our condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Mr. Won.

Carlos M. Ambriz

July 15, 2020

The best band teacher ever. Sorry to hear about his passing. I was fortunate enough to play in both the marching and jazz bands at Franklin (1986-1990), and look upon those years with great fondness. I will never forget the places we toured (Seattle, Canada, Los Angeles, etc), and the people I met. Thank you, Mr. Won. It's because of you, and my experiences playing in your bands, that two of my daughters play in the school band now. My condolences to Dean and your family. May you rest in peace.

Manuel Montes

July 14, 2020

Mr. Won, I want to thank you for all of your understanding, patience, kindness and believing in me. You will be missed.
c/o 1990

Rico Dela Cruz

July 12, 2020

Mr. Won influenced me in 7th grade at Hamilton Middle School to switch instruments from the violin to the stand up bass because they gave a concert at our school andI knew Franklin did not have an orchestra. And The rest was history... I played the electric Bass in the Jazz band from 1983 to 1987. I actually had a little stint of Marching band my Sophmore year and he tutored me in the Bells after school for many weeks. He was a great teacher and still to this day, I play music. Hopefully Ill influence my kids to play an instrument and continue the beauty of music. He influenced many people and I thank the Won family for sharing him with us. May he Rest In Peace! Ps. Lots of other Dela Cruzs siblings played under him too!

Ken Crosby

July 11, 2020

Condolences to the family. Sad to hear. Great teacher, influenced many musicians. And was one of the reasons that many of us had so much fun at Franklin High School! Will be missed. May The Lord God comfort the family and all friends.

Steven Garcia

July 11, 2020

I want to wish Mr. Won family my condolences. As you can see he touched many lives over the years. It was a honor to play in his big band at Franklin. It was the best year at Franklin for me. Those memories will always stay with me and my brothers and sisters from the '82 band.

Richard F. Martinez

July 11, 2020

Mr. Won gave me my first promotion after hearing my horn playing while practicing with the Franklin High Marching Band. He said to me, "You sound strong out there. I would like you to join the Jazz Band."
Thank you for your mentorship. I learned more from him than playing music. He was one of a kind. Many, many memories of rehearsing, traveling, competitions, and awards. He was responsible for more than was evident. He pulled together many resources to make things happen. And managing all those teenagers all at the same time while making great music.

Marion Cabral

July 10, 2020

Mr. Won was a man like no other. He was enthusiastic, inspiring, demanding but alway fun. While his expectations of his students were high, he always treated us with kindness & care. It was because of band that I transferred to Franklin, specifically to march for him. Lining up behind the bump was one of my favorite parts of the day. Many of my most memorable hs moments are with the band. I am so blessed to have had Mr. Won as a teacher and mentor. His loving smile and kind soul will be greatly missed. My condolences to the Won family.
Marion Jimenez-Cabral
Class of 92

Jaime Constantino

July 9, 2020

I have many great memories of Mr. Won. My high school experience would not have been the same without him. I offer my sincere condolences to the family.
Class of 99- Jaime Constantino

Michael Quiaoit

July 9, 2020

Mr. Won was a wonderful man and a teacher of young souls. He made a lasting impact to many of us Franklin High graduates and produced some of the best HS Jazz bands in Stockton. He will be missed.

Chantal Haddad

July 9, 2020

i would like to offer my condolences to Mr Wons family. He was a great, funny man, and friend and teacher. He will be greatly missed. Luv ya Mr Won, until we meet again. ❤Chantal Haddad class of 1989

Chantal Haddad

July 9, 2020

i would like to offer my condolences to Mr Wons family. He was a great man, friend and teacher. He will be greatly missed. Luv ya Mr Won, until we meet again. ❤Chantal Haddad class of 1989

Nancy Blaylock

July 9, 2020

Mel was a good friend and collegue during my career as the music teacher at Fremont Middle School, 1984-2005. He was always there at our concerts, for a word of encouragement or sharing tickets to a Giants game. My life was just one of the many Mel enriched and blessed. Rest well my friend, mentor and collegue.

Jaime Zetter

July 9, 2020

Mr Won was an amazing teacher not just of music but life. He had a great disposition he was funny he had a kind heart and was a true friend to all
His memory will be in so many peoples hearts for a very long time
Enjoy the concert in the sky Mel

Carl Smith

July 9, 2020

An incredible man and brilliant instructor.... he brought music to life!!!!

Jim Dela Rosa

July 8, 2020

I considered Mel to be both a classmate and a friend. We were in the band together at Edison HS under the direction of Albert Leach who, like Mel, played the trombone. There was a week one summer when I was Mel's backup on his paper route. He delivered the Stockton Record to office buildings in downtown Stockton. I remember having burning lungs from trying to keep up with Mel as he sprinted up the stairs to various offices! Mel was one of the good guys. Soft spoken, calm, and deliberate, I don't ever recall seeing him angry. It's no surprise that Mel became an outstanding educator. My sincere condolences to his family.
Jim Dela Rosa

Dale Tribune Hall

July 8, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

charles carter

July 8, 2020

very fond of my music teacher at freemont jr high, a very good teacher always remember his positive attitude, god has a good one, prayers to his family

Mike & Linda Davisson

July 8, 2020

Both of my kids studied under him (1993-2000). We were typical band parents, we went as chaperones on several school outings. Mel was a great friend and on a side note he was a fun golf buddy. My family owes you a lot Mr. Won. God Bless You and Rest In Peace.

Dennis Kitagawa

July 8, 2020

Mel and I were classmates at Edison High. I remember him as someone who was inclusive of all people, and he had that special and genuine smile. My deepest sympathies go out to Mel's family.

Meliena rueda

July 7, 2020

our legacy lives on in the students that you taught. Many still have music in their bones because of you! You created special memories for those that had the privilege to work with you. Rest In Peace.

Lisa Hernandez

July 6, 2020

I didn't play an instrument but i was in the auxiliary. I remember standing outside and looking thru the door teaching his students during lunch and after school. I remember marching on the miracle Mile and all of us to Disneyland for competition. I always spoke highly of Mr. Won. I am glad and blessed that my boys got to meet Mr. Won at Lincoln HS helping students. We last took a picture of Mr Won with my sons and I. It felt like i was taking a picture with a Star Musician. Actually....We did.
Thank you Mr. Won. C/O 83

Loren Iversen

July 6, 2020

my condolences to the family . I loved playing in your big band when you got out of the service / rip my friend.

Rhonda Moore

July 6, 2020

Mr. Won was definitely on of a kind. I appreciate all I've learned from him in band class. He was a gem and a true Raiders fan. May he rest in peace.

April Wilson

July 6, 2020

Me. Won was a great teacher!!! Sending prayers to you and your family. Greatly missed. C/O 92

Don Vasquez

July 6, 2020

I remember Mel from childhood in Sumer school 1971, we played for the ground breaking ceremony for what would be the Woodruff vocational center. Later I would see Mel in his 75-76 Franklin Band (west Side Story) ! In 80-81 I played trumpet for Mel at Delta College (Gliding)& Summer Music Theater (West Side Story)Later on our Daughters went through Franklin and we (Alicia & I) were band boosters for Mel. I remember going to my 1st band Booster meeting ,and Alicia mentioned not to volunteer right away. Mel nominated me to be Booster President! lol We had some great years at Franklin and it was the last 4 years of his time at Franklin. marching band, Jazz band, winter guard. It was Good. Mel invited me to play along in the In the Mood Band during the Victory Park concerts! I am truly blessed to have been counted as a friend to Mel & Sandy! On his last tour with Franklin, the band went down south to L.A. ,they even recorded in a studio, which was run by 2 of his former students! It was Mel/Sandy Anniversary weekend so, we bought them a funny gift Heckle & Jeckle beanie babies (married peeps joke)! Through all the years that have passed I am grateful that I was able to see Mel ,before the Covid lockdown started. May he and sandy Rest In Peace. Prayers and Condolences to his His Children & Grandchildren

Mary Ellen Avila-Braden

July 6, 2020

MEL WAS A WONDERFUL FRIEND AT EDISON HIGHSCHOOL. WE PARTICULARLY LOVED TO SHARE "MUSIC JOKES", AS HE WAS IN THE BAND & I WAS IN THE ORCH. HE PLAYED IN A COMBO THAT ONE OF MY BROTHERS PUT TOGETHER FOR MY FATHER'S FUNERAL MASS. JUST ONE OF THE MANY KIND THINGS THAT HE DID FOR OTHERS. I WAS SO VERY SADDENED TO HEAR OF HIS DEATH. MY HEART IS HEAVY. HE'S A GREAT ADDITION TO "HEAVEN'S BAND >AND< ORCH"! MAY ALL OF HIS LOVED ONES FIND PEACE IN KNOWING THAT. >HE WAS SPECIAL!

Barbara Williams

July 6, 2020

I first met Mel during UOP summer music camp, when I was in college there. As a music ed major, I observed his teaching at Fremont Junior High. When I graduated and was searching for a job, Mel called and suggested I apply at SUSD, which I did. I became a colleague of Mel, thanks to him. His history of music making, music teaching, and mentoring musicians will last forever, through all those he touched, and all those who carry on his work. Deep condolences to the family for such a loss. Mel will be forever in our hearts.

Deanna Moore

July 6, 2020

Sending my condolences to the Won family may God be with you all

Anita D Kelly

July 6, 2020

Mel was a legend at Stockton Unified School District, his students winning many awards. I am sure he will be missed.

Carla Orr-Palmer

July 6, 2020

My deepest condolences for Mr. Wons loss. What an honor to know such a great man, father, and to have him as my band teacher at Franklin High School. He took our Band to Japan and showed us so many wonderful things as our teacher. But what a pleasure to watch him as a father and to experience his kindness as a wonderful man who just loved life. He will forever be in my heart and memories and what great memories so many of us have shared with him.

Ron Lazaro

July 5, 2020

Mel was an athlete who won league championships in tennis at EHS. When he was at Fort Ord I happened to run into him. He was about to deploy to Vietnam as a cook. I had him transferred to army band at Fort Ord which started his intro to big band jazz. The last time I worked with Mel was at my parents 50th Anniversary and at an all class EHS reunion. I consider him a great friend and will miss him.

margaret aceves

July 5, 2020

he was a great man as a teacher always encourging.

Tracie Chestine-Ortiz

July 5, 2020

Mr. Won made an everlasting mark on his many music students. I would say without a doubt all of us in Marching Band or Jazz band would say it was our favorite part of High School. He led us to many awards. He will be truly missed. A wonderful legacy he has left to Stockton, Ca. He's directing an everlasting band now.

Judy Caruso Williamson

July 5, 2020

So very sorry to hear of Mel's passing. What a fabulous guy-teacher, musician, human being! We went to Edison together, and he always did his Alma Mater proud. He was an inspiration to his students. Condolences to his family.

Heather berg

July 5, 2020

Mr won was a amazing teacher,and I had so much fun in marching band ,I wouldn't have the friends I have today if it wasn't for his class,you will be deeply missed

Christina Fry/Schuchard

July 5, 2020

Prayers to all of Mr Wons family. He was a great man that will Never be forgotten. He made me love all 4 years of high school with Marching Band. He was truly a great man.

Christi Mendler

July 5, 2020

Mel I truly enjoyed working 15 years with you at Franklin. You were always smiling and you were very kind to me. You truly put Franklin on the map with the band and many awards you brought home through your teaching and guidance. You are a character and you did it your way. You are one of Stocktons shining stars, shine on us now from above. You will always be in my thoughts. Much love and respect, Christi

Maxine Sarmiento

July 5, 2020

Im sad its been so many years, decades really, since Ive seen him. He was a great man and teacher. I feel truly blessed to have been one of the thousands of students he influenced. Thank you Mr. Won for always being there for me, especially after my father died during my sophomore year of HS. You were like a father figure to me. Ill always be grateful to the many lesson opportunities you provided us to travel, the ultimate being a Franklin Jazz Band trip to Japan. Thank you to the wonderful Won family for sharing your, son, husband and father with us all.

Maxine Sarmiento

July 5, 2020

Im sad its been so many years, decades really, since Ive seen him. He was a great man and teacher. I feel truly blessed to have been one of the thousands of students he influenced. Thank you Mr. Won for always being there especially after my father died during my sophomore year in High School. You were like a father figure to me. Ill never forget and always be grateful to the many opportunities you made available to your students and especially our trip to Japan. Thank you to the wonderful Won family for sharing your, son, husband and father with us all.

Kathy Young

July 5, 2020

Mel was a wonderful music teacher and his students blossomed under his care. The Franklin jazz band was very popular, thanks in part to his talented guidance. So very sorry to read this news.

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