Gene R. Meleleu, 76, of Hope , RI, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2014. He was the beloved husband of Lynne (Wilson) Meleleu.
Born in Fall River, MA, on October 10, 1937, Gene was the son of the late Albert and Helen Meleleu. After attending BMC Durfee HS, he entered the US Air Force at age 17, serving for 22 years. He first trained as a reciprocating engine mechanic, eventually moving into ground safety. He served at various US Air Force posts in such areas as Alaska, Guam, South Korea and England. Among Gene’s many commendations are the Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal.
Upon his honorable retirement from the USAF at the rank of Master Sergeant, Gene began a second career in the US Postal Service, beginning as a letter carrier and eventually becoming a clerk and supervisor of postal operations at the Greenville Post Office. During this time, he also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from Rhode Island College. After a 15 year tenure in the USPS, Gene and Lynne established Lyn-Art Studio and Framery in Greenville which they have successfully owned and operated for the past 18 years. They have served the community with their expertise in framing their customers’ precious works.
Gene, a devoted family man, was an avid reader of military history. Along with his wife Lynne, Gene is survived by his two sons, Ronald G. Meleleu of Hope and Daniel J. Meleleu and his wife Irene and granddaughter Rachael of Cumberland. Gene is also the brother of Betty McComb of Portsmouth, NH and Barbara Kulpar of Somerset, MA. He was predeceased by his brother Jack Meleleu of Phoenix, AZ.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at 9:00AM in St. Joseph’s Church, Danielson Pike, North Scituate. Burial with military honors in Acote’s Hill Cemetery, Chepachet. Visitation Friday 4-7PM in the ANDERSON-WINFIELD Funeral Home, Route 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene’s name may be made to Home & Hospice Care of RI, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904
Home & Hospice Care of RI or Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project