Harold Mendes Sr.

Harold Mendes Sr.
Harold Mendes Sr. age 97 of Waterbury passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 15, 2022. He was the widower of Angelina (Santos) Mendes.
Harold was born to the late John and Mary Mendes on February 18, 1924 in Onset, Massachusetts. He lived most of his later life in Woodbridge, CT until he relocated a few years ago to his daughter's home in Waterbury, CT.
He joined the United States Navy as one of the youngest men to serve in his division during World War II. After being honorably discharged from his Naval responsibilities, he then returned home to reconnect with the woman he adored, Angelina Santos, who soon became his loving wife. It was at this time that the legacy of this Mendes family started to plant its roots. Along this journey, while loving each other and growing together, this family tree began to grow. They were blessed with five exceptional children, beginning with their first daughter Tina [the quiet storm], Gerard [the shy peacekeeper], Sheila [the eternal caregiver], Harold [the critical thinker] and last but not least, Pierre [the life of the party "and then some"!].
Harold was a dedicated family man and juggled many different jobs before settling into his career as Building Services Supervisor at Yale New Haven Hospital, for almost 30 years. Unfortunately, during this time frame his loving wife of 30 years passed away, and he pursued his long-desired dream of being a business owner. It was at this time that he opened H&G Mendes Grocery and Deli conveniently located just across the street from Yale New Haven Hospital, where he served the local community with tasty food, good service and a warm heart.
Harold always lived his life as a man of integrity and a man of his word. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved in his presence. He is best remembered for his generosity and his deep love for family. In his eyes, family always came first. In addition to being a really great guy, he was an amazing chef. Harold believed that all meals should be prepared with love. He was a fan of Chuck Norris and western movies. Musically he loved Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra. He was often known for whistling and humming a tune of his own. Harold was known for his engaging conversations and storytelling along with a good card game with family and friends.
He leaves to cherish his memories, sisters, Viola Mendes Jennette and Eva Monterio; daughter, Sheila Mendes; sons, Gerard Mendes, Harold (Jacqueline), Mendes, and Pierre Mendes; grandchildren, Robert Beamon, Monique Jackson, Antoine (Mindy) Jackson, Tiffany (Jason) Delevante, Chad Mendes, Clint Mendes, Jade Mendes, Colton Mendes, Aaron Mendes and Carly Mendes; great-grandchildren, Jaden Beamon, Marcus Jackson, Tyler Jackson, Angelina Mendes, Peyton Rudel, Damien Santiago, Analise Mendes, Chad Mendes, Jr., Maya Delevante, Camilla and Catori Santiago and Faith Mendes; godchild, John Almeida. In addition, he leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
The Mendes Family Tree would be amiss if we didn't acknowledge another important woman in our loved one's life. After the death of his wife, in Harold's later years, he had the opportunity to meet another delightful companion, Laura Monteiro. The Mendes Family would like to express our deepest love for Laura and her branch on our Family Tree.
He was predeceased by his wife Angelina Mendes, daughter Tina Beamon (Nutchie); sister, Beatrice; and brothers, Arthur, Henry, Jackie, Joe and Raymond.
Funeral services for Mr. Mendes will be on Wednesday, February 23rd at 11:00 a.m. at the House of Prayer Church 1245 Thomaston Ave Waterbury. Relatives and friends may visit with the Mendes family at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.