There are no words to describe my adoration and admiration for this talented man.  Yet to call him my friend too is such a blessing.  The first time Mel posted  a message to little ol' me I thought I would faint!  I learned that he was just as legendary for his kindness and friendship.

I am remembering the first time Dan I met Mel. I could feel the  tenderness of his spirit and warmth. Such a kind and gentle person he was. I was blessed to have known him. He is a good memory in my life.
Pamila 

As I think about my Uncle Mel it is amazing the random memories that come to mind...
I remember feeling like my uncle was some kind of celebrity in the Carl’s Jr. franchise because he could get us the star ornaments! When I found out he knew AND PLAYED for the band Truth ... seriously my uncle was the coolest. (I did say the memories were random) 

I also remember him being so generous. Generous in time, talent, money, efforts... he was loving and I was always welcome in the Canales house. I feel like I was there almost daily :) 

Uncle Mel I pray you are dancing and playing music in praise and celebration this weekend. 

Mel,
A dear brother in Christ Jesus, a friend, a coworker, an encouragement. I know that I will see you again. A fellow musician and an excellent one. Thankful to have had a chance to play a Christmas song with you. I will not forget your regular visit to my office to inspect the candy dish.  He loved God, he loved his family, he loved his friends. If you abide in love, God abides in you and you in Him. Great was his love. You will be greatly missed.
Daniel


Your Dad was a great guy that was loved by so many and will be greatly missed!  He loved all of you so much and was so proud of you all! The last time we saw him was when he stopped by Grandma Louise’s house when we were living there. He had his two girls with him and came by for a short visit!  His legacy lives on through you, his children!  Hope you feel free to stop by anytime your in Clovis! Address: 1747 Bedford Clovis,Ca 93611  We love you and are praying for you all!  We had planned to attend Memorial Service but am feeling under the weather.  Take care and God Bless you! 

Uncle Mel and I shared a passion for music. He bought me my first pair of Ralph Hardimon drumsticks and took me to my first DCI event. You’d rarely catch him without a smile. He was a real joy to be around. He loved his family dearly and we loved him.

This is a copy of my text to Mel while he was battling for his life in the hospital. Sunday, December 20,
        Hey brother, not sure if you can see this but just know I’m praying for you to be able to rebound from this damn COVID crap I know your strength is in your faith. I don’t know anyone else who has so much  strength, so much steadfast belief in our savior. You’re always the one I turn to when I’m not sure what my next step should be. I’ve been asking the Lord to not call you yet. I know it’s selfish of me ,but, I’m not as strong  as you and I can’t imagine my life without you Mel. I love you brother!  Stick around if He allows you too.

Mel, was such a sweetheart always had a smile on his face. He had the prettiest eyes and eyelashes. He was always batting those pretty eyes at the girls. Thanks for ur friendship. I’ll bet he’s singing in the choir in heaven. 

Oh, yes. This was another vacation I came back from and he literally put post-it notes covering my entire work area. And this isn't even the half of it. There will never be anyone else on this  earth like you. Your family is blessed to call you Father, Husband, Uncle, Brother, Grandpa. And I am blessed to have called you Friend. Love, Snuggles

There was nothing like coming back from a week-long vacation, and having your entire desk wrapped in cellophane. He literally did my entire desk, chair, telephone, you name it. This was an ongoing tradition we had when one of us was gone from work. One of my favorite memories.

My and my buddy Mel at our company Christmas party. I miss you so much. I miss our conversations.  You truly are one-of-a-kind.

One of the sweetest men I’ve ever met! Always with the brightest smile! You sure brighten up a room ! You are missed a bunch my friend! To the heavens above! You are truly an Angel 👼 

I met Mel in 1969 when I marched C-Cadets (Commodores) he was instantly our hero as he gave us the tips on horn playing and marching. I remember the Standstill in Stockton , when SCV in original green sleeves came in to perform. The Guard stood on the Stage as the Hornline marched in place! It was awesome! Mel came to Stockton on a regular basis, it was always fun.  I still remember the 72 SCV show and his solo on Fiddler & Chava!
 We kept tabs with each other through the years, i looked forward to seeing him at the Moonlight Classic, after party & he showed -up at Commodore reunions too! I am so happy to have known him and loved him as a friend.may he R.I.P. parade rest Brother :)

Mel was my best friend , there are too many memories to share . We had many moments out and about .This one we went to see Paul Anka , after my mom passed ,and his Christmas party 
I loved Mel’s appreciation for music and it was something he and I shared together singing karaoke and seeing live performances. I loved watching videos of his days in Santa Clara Vanguard
He was loved 

OBITUARY

Emelicio Richard Canales

March 31, 1951 – January 5, 2021

Lakewood Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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