Joseph Vincent Mellow

November 18, 1932 – November 6, 2023

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather

Joe was born on November 18th, 1932, in Crescent City, California, to Frank and Isabel Mellow. He was raised with 9 brothers and 2 sisters in Cave Junction, Oregon. There he attended Cave Junction High School where he met the love of his life, and wife of 69 years, Lucille Pritchett. They married on April 30, 1954, in Reno, NV. They welcomed their first child Kenneth in 1955, who would be joined just over a year later by Diana. Ronald was born into the family in 1959 with Connie completing the family in 1962.

Joe worked in many aspects of the timber industry before finding his calling as a Millwright Master Mechanic, a role he served most of his career. After a disastrous fire destroyed the mill in which he worked, putting the livelihood of many in the community in jeopardy, the decision was made to rebuild the plant. Joe was called to oversee the rebuilding project and continued as the plant manager until his retirement in 1998.

When Joe was not working, he spent time camping in his RV with his beloved wife, friends and family. He played golf and had a chance to relax and enjoy a glass of wine. He found great joy in watching the younger generations compete in sporting and school events and watching them grow. In addition to his wife, Lucille, survivors include their children; Ken Mellow, Diana & Alan Conaway, Ron Mellow, Connie & Andy Mellow-Mote, 11 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

The love, calm and often mischievous nature of Joe was infectious. One could not be in his presence and not feel safe and cared for. His generosity and openness of his home has always been a sanctuary for all his family and friends. He was always a jokester, creating joyful and loving memories up to his final days.

He was loved very much and will be greatly missed.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.chapel-valley.com for the Mellow family.