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Michael Mele Obituary
Michael Joseph Mele, (57), of Hackensack, passed away peacefully in his home on July 14, 2017 due to complications from recent spinal surgery. He was a graduate of Cresskill High School, Class of 1978, and he earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Stockton State College. He was a member of MENSA.
Michael was the Facilities Maintenance Manager at the U.S. Postal Services headquarters in Hackensack, NJ, but his true passion was music. As the lead singer and guitarist in the Grateful Dead cover band, Dead Ringers, he brought music, joy and laughter to friends, family and audiences. He was also an avid motorcyclist for close to 40 years. Michael was quick-witted and always ready to offer a joke, a helping hand, or a loving embrace to anyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Michael is survived by his mother, Toni Mele [92], sisters Chic and Simone, brothers Bill and Joe, and ten nieces and nephews.
Visitation at The Barrett Funeral Home 148 Dean Dr. Tenafly, Wednesday from 4-9 PM. Funeral Mass, Thursday at 12 PM at Mt. Carmel R.C. Church, Tenafly. Cremation Private. For directions visit www.barrettfuneralhome.net.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Mele
Sponsored by Barrett Leber Funeral Home - Tenafly.
Dan Marra
July 12, 2019
Mike is always on my mind when I troubleshoot the HVAC at the PO. I wouldn't be doing what I love if it wasn't for Mike. I'm always giving him credit when my coworkers ask how I knew how to fix something. My continuous prayers to Mike and his family! I hope you find the drawing I made of Mike doing a stand up act. It always brought a smile to him when he looked at it.
Daniel Marra
September 26, 2017
I am so sorry to hear this! Michael was my co worker at the PO during 2003-2006 and he taught me so much about maintenance. He loved his heritage. He would always tell me "we Italians need to stick together". He was very talented as a musician and we would always talk about his gigs. He also had a great sense of humor. We would call each other "svacim". He would call me when he felt down and considered me his friend. I gave him a Swiss Army knife on my last day of work and he wrote me a nice letter calling me his friend. Michael would always talk about his mother and sister Simone. I will miss his phone calls. My condolences to the Mele family. May you rest in peace my friend! Dan Marra
Hardy Krueger
September 3, 2017
Will never forget when you lent me your ride when mine was down....that's what a real friend does. Have missed you all these years ridin' next to me, Bro...like that time we almost hit a black bear up on Rt. 519. Will miss you singin' Jack Straw and St. Stephen at all the gigs. Ride Free and Rest in Peace.
Doretta Rinaldi Wright
July 20, 2017
Michael, You were a loving, kind and creative spirit. I am happy you are without pain now - hopefully playing Box of Rain and Terrapin Station for fellow angels in heaven. Please be sure to cook and enjoy a great meal with Ralph, your dad and Aunt Rose. I have many fond memories as kids in Cresskill jumping off your roof into the pool, riding mini bikes in your backyard and cooking and creating havoc with Simone. I know you're in a better place. xo- Doretta
CAROL Ayres
July 19, 2017
Michael will be deeply missed by so many friends. His music meant so much to so many. Our deepest sympathy to all who loved him. He will always be in our hearts and minds.
Much love, Michael
Carol Ayres and Rich Shapiro
Janet & Bill Parisi
July 19, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to Toni and the Mele Family. I remember that "little kid" running through our yards. So sad..........
Stephen Browne
July 19, 2017
Mike was truly one of a kind and one of the kindest people I've ever known. I will never forget him, ever. As a musician and singer he was one of the best I've played with and his sense of humor was second to none. I am heartbroken and look forward to seeing him in heaven where I'm sure he is with his dad
Lisa Lopes
July 18, 2017
Such a sad day thinking of you and the wonderful fun times we had and how you made everyone laugh till we almost peed our pants! Your music was your world and you played till your heart was content and then played even more! You were a great friend and a funny man Mike and will truly be missed by all~ My deepest condolences to Mrs. Mele and the family~Rest peacefully my friend ~Love,
Lisa Lopes
Carolyn Marosy
July 18, 2017
Michael was a rarity in this world, always kind words and a heart of gold. He will be deeply missed and his memory will be kept alive through the music he loved, and the songs we will play to remember him. My condolences to family and friends. He was a very special person. Fare thee well, Michael. Rest in Peace.
Denise Hill
July 18, 2017
My heart goes out to Mrs Mele and all the family. It's been decades since I've seen Mike and I still smile every time I think of him.
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