Mel was a man with a powerful work ethic. He had an Associates degree in Electrical Engineering, and started his career with Rockwell Collins Radio as a Bench Technician, and ended his career with the Rockwell Semiconductor Division as Executive Director of GPS Systems over both the El Paso and Newport Beach facilities. After retiring, he volunteered with the Saddleback Community Outreach, assisting with Grant proposals.
Mel had a complex intellect. However, he was a man of simple pleasures, not needing more than the most important things in life; friends, family, and nature. Whether at the annual Fathers Day beach party, or sitting on the back porch he could be found relaxing, listening to stories, and watching the kids play. He enjoyed late night swims in the ocean, walks on the beach, and exploring nature in the state and national parks. He relished his twice weekly golf games with his friends at Casta Del Sol, as well as his monthly retiree luncheon. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and tinkering with his 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider.
He is survived by his sisters, Joan, and Carol; his beloved wife of 34 years, Jeanette; his daughter Catherine; his sons, James and Jeremy; his granddaughter Helen; his grandsons Steve, Westley, and Xander; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
