Capt. Mele, 88, of Freehold Township, died June 19, 2010, at home after an 18-year battle with cancer. He was born in New York City and graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy, class of 1943. He worked as a shipmaster for the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots, Lithium Heights, Md., for 26 years, retiring in 1980. Capt. Mele was a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and served during World War II. He was predeceased by his first wife, Dorothy, in 1974. He is survived by his wife, Doris Mele; a daughter and son-in-law, Bonnie and Allen Van Dusen of Jackson; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, Freehold Township, followed by interment at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls. Memorial donations may be made to the Bethesda United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 245, Adelphia, NJ 07710.
