Ansel Paul Mello MD

Beloved physician, Dr. A. Paul Mello, died peacefully at his home on January 12, 2022.

Having practiced the art of medicine for over 50 years, perhaps it is apt that ultimately it was Dr. Mello's heart that gave out because he gave it so willingly and generously to his family, his friends, his patients and his profession.

Dr. Mello was born in Richmond, California on December 31, 1941 to Dr. John and Ida Mello. He grew up in Pittsburg, California. Upon graduating from Pittsburgh High School, Dr. Mello attended Santa Clara University and Georgetown University School of Medicine, earning his medical degree in 1967.

After graduating from Georgetown, Dr. Mello returned to the Bay Area to pursue an internship at Santa Clara County Hospital. It was there that he met and married the love of his life, Karen, who at the time was a medical technologist. From 1968 to 1970, Dr. Mello served in the U.S. Navy as a commissioned medical officer, stationed first in San Diego and later in the Philippines. Following his military service, Dr. Mello completed his medical residency in Internal Medicine at Stanford Hospital and at Santa Clara County Hospital, where he was chief resident.

Eager to establish roots and start a private medical practice, the Mellos relocated to Fresno, drawn by its solid community and to be near family. Dr. Mello joined the Fresno Medical Group. Later he and fellow colleagues formed Internal Medicine Associates, where he practiced medicine for several decades. Dr. Mello eventually joined Saint Agnes Medical Providers until his retirement in 2019.

Medicine was Dr. Mello's true calling. He loved being a doctor and cared deeply for his patients and colleagues. Many in his practice became lifelong friends. Saint Agnes Hospital was like a second home to Dr. Mello. He spent countless hours there — including nights, weekends and holidays — making his rounds and caring for those he lovingly called his "people." Additionally, and with sincere and generous heart, his door was also always open to share knowledge and perspective, offer guidance and provide love and support to family and friends. So many would refer to him as "The Good Doctor."

Dr. Mello also made time to do the things he loved and to share them with his family. He, Karen and the children traveled extensively throughout the world — his favorite trips being those that involved piling into the family station wagon and driving all over the United States. Dr. Mello was an avid fisherman, hunter and, in his prime, a black diamond-level skier. He loved the mountains, especially spending time at the family cabin in Pinecrest. Dr. Mello was a master sailor, having crewed on sailboats with friends and colleagues in various races and regattas around California. He inspired two generations of sailors, most recently teaching his grandchildren how to sail on his Hobie Cat.

Dr. Mello had a fierce intellect, curiosity and an insatiable thirst for knowledge that was almost as strong as his compassion for people. On any given day, his reading list would include local and national newspapers, the most recent editions of top medical journals and his fiction book of choice. He enjoyed sports and appreciated the arts. His weekends would often include attending Fresno State football games and performances of the Fresno Philharmonic.

The very social Dr. Mello loved being with family and friends. Though he was rarely the first to arrive at a party, he was usually one of the last to leave. He was probably happiest when sharing a glass of red wine and a slice of cheese over good conversation.

Above all, Dr. Mello was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his dear wife of 54 years, Karen; his son Branden, his wife Kate and their children Elizabeth and Ansel Paul II; and his daughter Kirsten Years, her husband Stephen and their children Julian, Reagan and Charlotte. He is also survived by his sister, Lesley Harrison, and many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.

A service celebrating Dr. Mello's life will be held February 17, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fresno.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a favorite charity.