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Anthony “Diego” Mello

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution announces with sorrow the death of former employee Anthony “Diego” Mello on September 7, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 69.

Born on April 14, 1955, in East Providence, RI, Diego’s life was a remarkable journey that left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was a loving husband, a cherished son, a dear brother, and a beloved uncle, whose kind and courageous spirit was as vast as the oceans he spent his life exploring.

A veteran of the United States Coast Guard, Diego served with honor and distinction for over two decades at various stations around the country. He went to the Antarctic on one of the USCG icebreakers.  He was stationed at Ft. Myers where he helped build the new station.  While serving on Nantucket, his duties included painting lighthouses and ferrying Nantucket legend/volunteer Coast Guardsman Madaket Millie to the store (both jobs he cherished) along with his other Coast Guard duties.  He worked his way up through the ranks to Chief and mentored many along the way.   One former shipmate, Joe Walters, said, “Diego is one of the best shipmates I have ever sailed with. One of the most outstanding and effective leaders that I ever had the pleasure of working with.”  Diego retired in 1992 while serving as Officer in Charge of the USCG Station Cape Cod Canal.

His commitment to his country was paralleled only by his dedication to the sea.  Following his military service, he embarked on a second career as a Merchant Mariner, a role he embraced with passion for over 31 years.  During his 24 years at WHOI, Diego led and mentored both sailors and scientists on the R/V Oceanus.   He sailed the seven seas and visited every continent.  He was “Ice Certified” before it was common, and he was the Ice Advisor (aka iceman) on the Joides Resolution when they sailed to the Antarctic.  All of this is what led him to the University of Alaska Fairbank’s ship, the R/V Sikuliaq – the next stop on his journey.  In 2016, with his Master’s Unlimited License in hand, he stepped aboard the ice-reinforced ship as Captain.  She is based out of Seward AK and spends considerable time in the Arctic ice.   He spent many years teaching and mentoring crew, scientists, and students as well as some land-based personnel.  Diego’s career at sea spanned more than half a century, a testament to his enduring love for maritime life.  His life at sea allowed him to travel extensively, granting him the rare opportunity to see many parts of the world and experience a diversity of life that few have the privilege to witness.

Those who had the joy of knowing Diego would describe him as the epitome of kindness and love. His courage was as steady as the ships he commanded, guiding him through the storms and the calm with equal grace. Diego’s presence was a beacon of warmth, illuminating the lives of those around him and providing a safe harbor in times of need.

In his leisure, Diego found solace in the simple pleasures of life. His heart was never far from the water, and he relished the tranquility it provided. His passion for travel was not just a professional calling but a personal one as well, as he eagerly explored new horizons with the same enthusiasm he brought to his work.

Anthony Diego Mello’s voyage through life was one of purpose, love, and adventure. His story will be retold in the memories of family and friends and in the silent legacy of the waves that he navigated with such skill. Diego has set sail on his final journey, leaving behind a wake of inspiration for all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to Diego, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His journey may have come to an end, but the course he charted remains a guiding light for us all. Fair winds and following seas, Captain Mello. Your voyage will be remembered, and your spirit will continue to sail in our hearts forever.

Diego is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia (Murphy) Mello, with whom he shared a beautiful and enduring love for over 20 years. He was the proud son of the late Joseph and Madeline (Alves) Mello and a respected brother to Daniel Mello of Groton, CT; David Mello of Uxbridge, MA; and Mark Mello of Vero Beach, FL.   He was predeceased by his siblings Joseph Mello, Felecia LeBlanc, and Bette Nobre.

Visiting hours are on Friday from 4-7:30 p.m. at Rebello Funeral Home.   His funeral will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 8 a.m. at the Rebello Funeral Home, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:15 a.m. in Sacred Heart Church,118 Taunton Avenue, East Providence. Burial with military honors will follow at 10:30 a.m. in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 301 South County Trail, Exeter, RI.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Donations can be made in Diego Mello’s name to: St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the US Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA).

Information for this obituary is from Diego’s family