Joseph V. Mello

Joseph V. Mello, 74, a longtime Lowell resident, passed away after a brief illness on Monday, May 20 at Belvidere Healthcare Center. He was the widower of the late Geraldine Mello who passed away some time ago.
Joe was born in Gloucester on June 4, 1949, a son of the late Anthony Mello and the late Ernestine Mello, he was raised and educated in Gloucester and Ipswich. Shortly after high school he enlisted in the United States Army where he served his country all over the world for over 13 years before his honorable discharge. As a young man he worked for the local fire department and also for Raytheon but what he will most be remembered for is his time spent with the Salvation Army.
Joe was with the Salvation Army for the past 10 years of his life, primarily as a bellringer. He dedicated his life to doing the most good and to meet human needs in the name of Jesus Christ without discrimination. His time spent with the Salvation Army is his legacy, the lives he impacted are innumerable and he will live on through that legacy.
He lived most of his adult life in the Downtown Lowell area. He was well known and well liked for his heart of gold, everyone loved Joe. He always made sure no one went hungry and lived a lifetime of putting others ahead of himself.
Joe is survived by his daughter in law, Brandy Elstob of Dorchester, his close friend Janice Santiago of Lowell and his baby, Bubba the cat.
He was also the father of the late Charles Frederick Elstob.
On Friday, May 31, all are welcome to attend his visitation from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell. His funeral service will take place in the funeral home at 11 a.m. followed by procession for burial at Westlawn II Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family humbly asks you to please consider a memorial donation in his name to the Lowell Salvation Army, 150 Appleton Street, Lowell, MA.