Jose Melad

Jose Delgado Melad

March 30, 1944-February 20, 2023

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, Jose “Pepe” Melad passed away peacefully at the age of 78 in his home in Fountain Valley, CA on February 20, 2023.  Jose was born on March 30, 1944, in Tuguegarao City, Philippines, the son of Cipriano and Marciana Melad.  Jose was one of ten children in his family, with one brother and eight sisters, along with two half-brothers.  Jose studied civil engineering at Mapua Institute of Technology, one of the most prestigious universities in the Philippines.  He graduated with honors at the top of his class. 

While in the Philippines, he met his true love, Emerlita Dizon.  They were married on September 10, 1969, and were happily married until Emerlita’s passing on July 29, 2006.  Jose and Emerlita had three sons, Jerome, Ryan, and James.  They immigrated to the United States of America in 1970, searching for new opportunities.  After working for several cities as a licensed civil engineer, Jose’s hard work and perseverance led him to his dream of starting his own engineering firm.  In 1981, he established Melad and Associates Inc., which has been a successful business, even to this day. 

Jose is the true definition of selflessness.  His generosity extended to all those that surrounded him.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  Jose loved to throw parties and was always the greatest host.  Some of his many             passions included singing, fishing, and going to Las Vegas.  He was also a huge sports fan, with the Los Angeles Lakers being his favorite sports team.  The most important thing to Jose is his family and friends.  Jose was a devout Catholic and praises God for all his blessings in life.  He served as a mentor to many up-and-coming engineers and created jobs and opportunities for many people.

Jose was preceded in death by his loving wife, Emerlita Melad, loving son Ryan Melad and his loving sisters Iderlina, Caridad, Rosalinda and brother Manual.  He is survived by his sons Jerome and James, daughters Jennifer and Abby, his loving grandsons Donovan and Slater, and his five sisters, Lucia, Anita, Elvesa, Mildred, Vivian and half-brothers Doroteo and Domingo.