Obituary of Jose D. Mendez

     Mr. Jose D. Mendez, 74, of Amsterdam, passed away Thursday March 12, 2020 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady.

     Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico on October 18, 1945 a son of the late David and Luz Silva Mendez.   He came to Amsterdam in 1974.

     He joined the Amsterdam Police Department in 1974 and was the first Hispanic Police Officer in the City’s History.  He served as the city’s youth officer, and after 21 years of dedicated service he finally retired in 1995 with the rank of Detective.   

        Mr. Mendez enjoyed traveling and spending time with the family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

       Survivors include his wife, Basilia Cabrera Mendez of Amsterdam whom he married on June 25, 1966.  His dear sons, David (Tanya) Mendez of the Town of Perth, NY and Jason (Heather) Mendez of Jacksonville, Florida.   One brother, Wilfredo Mendez of Johnstown, NY.   Cherished grandchildren, David Mendez, Juliana ( Jeff ) Baluch-Mendez, Gabriel (Alicia) Mendez,  Jovanina, Michael, Isabella and Angelica Mendez.   Three great-grandchildren, Anastasia, William and Elija Baluch-Mendez.  Nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.  Jose was predeceased by his sister Lydia Mendez in 2005.

          A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday March 21, 2020.  This will be by inviation only  at  Historic St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 156 East Main St., Amsterdam with Father Jeffrey  M.  L’Arche M.S. as celebrant.  Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery, Amsterdam.  Calling hours are now private by family invitation only at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY 12010.   Memorial contributions may be made to the Amsterdam PBA, 1 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY 12010.