Regino Rivera Melendez, GySgt, USMC, RET September 7, 1927 ~ April 24, 2014 Semper Fidelis Regino Rivera Melendez, 86, better known to friends and family as Papi, passed away peacefully on April 24th 2014 in his home surrounded by many loved ones. He was born September 7, 1927 in Orocovis, Puerto Rico to Esperanza Melendez and Ramon Rivera. He was raised by his grandmother Dolores Gonzales Martinez. He married Frances Cardoza Melendez in Ogden in 1960 in a union that would last 36 devoted years until the time of her passing. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1951 and served honorably for twenty years to include two combat tours in Vietnam; during one of which he was awarded a bronze star medal for meritorious service in support of combat operations. After retiring from the Marine Corps in 1971, he continued his service to the country as a civil servant for the IRS where he would for work for the next 20 years before retiring in 1991. Regino had many passions in life. Among them were family, friendships, food, and dancing. It was not uncommon to see him cooking a traditional Puerto Rican meal for friends and family; pausing only when the urge struck to dance a little salsa. He never hesitated to volunteer assistance to those in need, whether close friends or total strangers. His legacy will be one of honor, generosity, and devotion. Regino leaves behind his second wife, Loretta, two sons; Clemente (Rebecca) Melendez of Georgia, and Juan (Michelle) Melendez of Ogden. Papi will be greatly missed by his three grandsons; Benicio, Gabriel, and Christopher. He also leaves behind family in California to include niece Judy Romero; nephews Mike and Ivan Romero; as well as great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Monico and Mario Romero and his first wife Francis Cardoza Melendez. Our family wishes to acknowledge Dr. Robert C. Moesinger from McKay-Dee hospital; Dr. Carl Gray from Ogden Regional Medical Center; the staff and nurses at the Utah Hematology Oncology office at Ogden Regional Medical Center; as well as Applegate Homecare and Hospice. Our family can never truly express our gratitude and appreciation for the incredible care that you provided to him over these past few years. Know that he carried you all in the highest regard. Thank you. Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Josephs Catholic Church, 514 24th Street Ogden, Utah. A Viewing will be held Monday April 28, 2014 at Leavitts Mortuary, 836 36th Street Ogden, Utah from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Interment will be at Leavitts Aultorest Memorial Park. Visitation Information Date: Monday, April 28, 2014 Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Leavitt's Mortuary Address: 836 36th Street , , Ogden, UT, 84403 801-394-5556 | Map Service Information Date: Tuesday, April 29, 2014 Time: 10:00 am - St. Joseph Catholic Church Address: 514 24th Street, , Ogden, UT, 84404 | Map