Obituary of Raymond L. Mellema

Raymond L. Mellema, 87, of Westvale passed away peacefully with his loving family beside him. He leaves his wife of 65 years, Barbara J. (Conway) Mellema, a son, Ray D. Mellema, three daughters, Jean (Steven) Caraccilo, Kim (Robert Reid) Mellema, Barbara (Clayton) Williams and two grand-daughters, Sarah J. Mellema and Samantha K. Mellema, and several nieces. Raymond was the son of Edward M. and Hattie (Freitag) Mellema of Chicago, IL. He was pre-deceased by his brother Earl Mellema and three sisters, Alice Clayburn, Dorothy Slate and Lorraine Wittier. Raymond was a passionate man who lived most of his life in Syracuse, NY. He was employed by Crouse-Hinds for 35 years and served as president of the IBEW union there. His many creative projects led to patents in his name, unique wood-working creations and gifts for his family. As per his wishes there will be no public burial. Family plans will be private. "When I come to the end of the road "And the sun has set for me "I want no rites in a gloom-filled room "Why cry for a soul set free? "Miss Me a Little, But Not Too Long "And not with your head bowed low "Remember the love that we once shared "Miss me, But Let Me Go. "For this is a journey that we all must take "And each must go alone "It's all a part of the Master's plan "A step on the road to home. "When you are lonely and sick of heart "Go to the friends we know. "And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds. "Miss Me. But Let Me Go."