Edward Melendrez

1940 - 2016

Edward Vincent Melendrez, 75, of Albuquerque, New Mexico passed away Monday, March 21, 2016, with his family by his side at Mesilla Valley Hospice in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Edward "Eddie" also known as Vincent was born April 5, 1940 in Las Cruces, New Mexico to Joe and Elisa Nevarez Melendrez. Edward grew up in Las Cruces he graduated from Las Cruces High School in 1959, joined the Army in 1960 and graduated basic training from Fort Ord, California. Edward was a free spirit who lived his life by his own rules dancing to the beat of his own drum. He enjoyed reading, music, gardening, and nature. He worked at the Botanical Gardens in San Francisco, California and later was a security guard in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was a civil rights activist, who believed in equality in the work place; he was part of the American labor movement fighting for better working conditions as well as better pay for farm workers; he took great pride in having worked directly with Cesar Chavez. He believed in standing up for the "little person" and imparted this belief to his children. He was an avid Bob Dylan fan; loved Quentin Tarantino movies. He was fearless, strong willed, adventurous, and charismatic. A devoted son, protective father, loving brother, as well as a loyal friend.
Edward is survived by his daughter Rebecca and her husband Paul Perez of El Paso, Texas son James Melendrez of Albuquerque, New Mexico, brother Sonny Melendrez and his wife Victoria of San Francisco, California, sister Betty Melendrez of Las Cruces, New Mexico, brother Bill Melendrez and his wife Goshia of Columbus, Ohio, and Grandsons Tyler, and Daniel Perez of El Paso, Texas, and Micah Perez of Clovis, New Mexico. He was also loved by countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his big sister Stella Melendrez of Las Cruces, New Mexico.

"Don't get up gentlemen. I'm only passing through!" ? Bob Dylan
At his request cremation has taken place and services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are with Getz Funeral Home 1410 E. Bowman Ave Las Cruces NM 88001. To sign the local online guest book visit www.GetzCares.com