Robert Melendez Jr.

February 7,1949 – January 19, 2025

Robert “Bobby” Melendez Jr., a proud U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, completed his final deployment on Earth at age 75 on January 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on February 7, 1949, in El Paso, Texas, Bobby was the beloved son of Robert Melendez Sr. and Naomi Flores Melendez. The family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, when he was a young child where he grew up as the third of eight siblings. He is now reunited in eternal peace with his parents and his siblings Mario Oscar, Norma, Hector, Arthur, and Larry.

Bobby leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Candie Melendez, and his cherished children, Rob, Lisa (Barry), and Carlos. He was the proud Tata of Aryana and Colt Pfeifer, who brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by his brother Daniel (Mary), sister Thelma (Phillip), and a host of wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law and dear friends.

After serving his country in 1966-1969 with honor, Bobby built a career with AT&T/Lucent Technologies, retiring from the cable manufacturing plant in west Phoenix. He was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and happiness in nature; spending summers at the family cabin in Overgaard, Arizona, where he enjoyed the quiet beauty of the mountains.

Bobby’s love of sports and the Boston Celtics was undeniable. He was a talented athlete at a young age and could always be found playing baseball with his brothers and neighborhood friends. His love of sports ultimately carried him from the diamond to the coach's box. ”Coach Bob” dedicated many years to coaching his and other neighborhood children in Little League, Pony League, Softball, and Pop Warner while also volunteering as an umpire in his spare time. Later in life, Bobby kept his loyalties local as he cheered on his hometown Suns, Diamondbacks, & Cardinals.

A stranger he never met. Bobby had the ability to hit it off with anyone. Armed with a quick wit, chances are you probably have a funny story or three to share. It’s something we look back on fondly and will truly miss. He will forever be remembered as our big brother, our cool uncle, our helping and caring neighbor, a proud and adoring Tata, and our loving and supportive father and husband. We will miss his infectious personality and never-ending “Dad" jokes.

Semper Fi, Bobby. We will miss you dearly but take comfort in knowing that your laughter, kindness and love will live on in our lives forever.

Services followed by a reception will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, at 10:00 am at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 3550 E Knox Road, Phoenix, AZ 85044.