Mr. Richard Cosmo Melendez

September 27, 1931 – March 20, 2026

Walnut Creek, CA.

Richard Cosmo Melendez, a proud Navy veteran and lifelong musician, passed away peacefully at the age of 93. A man of discipline and unexpected melody, Richard served with distinction in the U.S. Navy, spending much of his military service stationed in Guam and Japan, and aboard the USS Rogers Destroyer. He often spoke fondly of this time, remembering the "treasures" he sent home to his mother from the Orient, which she proudly displayed in her large China cabinet. During his service, he was a firefighter and a heavy artillery gunner, where the loud guns contributed to his hearing loss over the years.

A devoted son, Richard cared for his parents, Jose and Consuela Melendez, with unwavering dedication. But to his family, he was most famous for his Sunday piano performances. Every week, as the house filled with siblings, nieces, and nephews, the sounds of his piano filled the air. Richard leaves behind a legacy of service, a few unfinished scores, and a family that will forever miss the sound of his piano echoing through the house.

He is survived by his remaining siblings, Frank Melendez (only remaining brother), Connie Salas, Helen Filice, Elenor Felix, and Gloria Castro, and a great many nieces and nephews, who will deeply miss the music, the stories, and even his occasional grumbling.