Robert B. Mellen Sr.

Robert B. Mellen Sr., 90, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, May 31, 2025, surrounded by friends and family. He was the beloved husband of the late Noreen (Campbell) Mellen, who passed away in 2002.
Born and raised in Lowell, Robert was the son of the late John Mellen and the late Dorothy (Calnan) Mellen. He grew up in the Centralville neighborhood and was educated at Saint Michael's School and Keith Academy A gifted athlete, he played basketball at Keith Academy. After graduating from Keith Academy, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He later continued his studies at Lowell Technological Institute, now known as UMass Lowell.
A lifelong learner, Robert pursued his education over many years, earning multiple degrees through night school while building an impressive and diverse career. He was both a civil and mechanical engineer, a licensed real estate agent, and certified in Title 5 septic system installation and inspection.
Robert's professional life was deeply rooted in construction and engineering. In his early twenties, he contributed to the development of Boston's Central Artery, inspecting and surveying its structural beams. He went on to serve the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as the Civil Engineer for District 8, based in Boston. His career took him to Pease Air Force Base and later Hanscom Air Force Base, before advancing to international work in Foreign Affairs. In that role, Robert traveled the world, overseeing construction projects across the globe. He ultimately returned stateside to finish his career as the head civil engineer at Hanscom, where he served for several years before retiring.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert was a man of many passions. He enjoyed golfing, skiing, fishing, and hunting. A dedicated sports fan, he loved watching the Red Sox, the Bruins, and he was a season ticket holder for UMass Lowell Hockey. He also gave back to his community by coaching youth hockey for the Lowell Youth Skating Association.
Robert is survived by his two sons, Robert B. Mellen Jr. and Joseph William "Bill" Mellen, both of Lowell; and his nieces and nephews: Judy McVey of Haverhill, Jayme Schrienemachers and her husband Matt, and James Campbell Jr., all of Maine, Martha (Mellen) Flynn and her husband Mike of Florida. Among his cousins, Laurie Kelber and her husband Joe of Methuen. He also leaves behind longtime family friends David DeMattia, Chris Paquette, Elaine Pantano, Brandon Gaybrick, Terry Gauthier and Bobby Mather.
He was predeceased by his brother, Jack Mellen, who passed away in 2012, and his cousin, Charlie Mellen.
You are welcome to attend his calling hours from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at the McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell, MA 01852. On Monday, June 9, 2025, his funeral will begin at the funeral home at 9 a.m., his funeral Mass will take place at 10 a.m. at Saint Michael's Parish, in Lowell followed by burial in Saint Patrick Cemetery.