George Mendes Obituary

The Academy was a tough place to be. Mr Mendes' friendliness and bottomless font of good cheer never failed to bring a smile to my face on even the worst days in the middle of the Dark Ages. God bless this great man and his loved ones. We loved him too.

All these years have passed...watching the fires in Colorado Springs on tv now made me think of George. We were a young Army couple in Colorado Springs in 1985 and rented 1/2 the house from George. What a wonderful man-like having a family member close by. Such a GREAT MAN...

It is with great sadness that I read the words that George Mendes has passed on. Some of my fondest academy memories are from hanging out with George after lunch with some friends as an upperclassmen. But my memories of George as a friend to every freshmen who ever squared a corner on the terrazzo make George special. The outpouring of love for George is evident on these web pages. He was the rarest of individuals that managed to touch the hearts of every person that he met.



God bless you George Mendes and Thank You!

I remember the dubious experiment with mass-produced, over-easy fried eggs. And the long anticipated announcement from the Staff Tower that, “The Egg Carts Are Ready!” There was George Mendes pushing the egg cart and shaking his head; smiling. It must have taken the kitchen hours to fry up all those eggs. As cadets we got the sense that nothing upsets Mr. Mendes…nothing. Fads at USAFA would come and go, but real fixtures like Mr. Mendes remain steadfast. I took great comfort in his presence at our table and his legendary service to our country. Our country needs more gentlemen like that.



“Thank you Mr. Mendes!”

Mr. Mendes was more than a hero to me. He was a patriot. For 4 years of my life I saw him nearly everyday demonstrate his love for America by teaching young cadets how to serve his country. Whether in combat or at USAFA, Mr. Mendes was always there for his brothers-in-arms. God bless him and his country.

Today I found out I lost a good friend, I wish I had known sooner. As a waiter at Mitchell Hall, I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting George. I found George to be so fascinating. That big smile, the way he carried himself. You could see the admiration in the eyes of the young doolies.



As I moved on frequently i would run into George and he would always greet with a hug and a big smile and immediately wanted to know how my family is doing. He had the most beautiful smile and those eyes he sure could roll them. The last time i saw George I was at Walmart in Nov. I heard this thunderous voice and I knew immediately it was George. It was sooo good to see him and have that time to talk. What warm and wonderful memories George has left in my heart and in my life.



My heart goes out to the Mendes family

Connie

A great man loved by all who had the privilege of meeting him. He was a positive person who had a positive effect on all.

Still can't have a discussion with any friends from The Zoo without a mention of "Tremendez Mendes". A great man, warrior and philosopher...May there always be water in Mitchell Hall.

"Mr. Mendes" is an icon, not to be soon forgotten! Thank you for your example!

Mr Mendes always new when to give that whisper or look of encouragement to keep you going. He is a hero!!

George Mendes was truly an icon in my cadet experience--when we were Doolies, he occasionally slipped us extra helpings and, upon request, he showed us the famous photo of him in uniform and beret at the prime of his fighting form in Vietnam. Despite the extensive combat he had to endure, he retained a contagious love for life and people. When I came back to USAFA as a faculty member in the late 1990s, I renewed my friendship with George and would help him release his homing pigeons from the south wall of Mitchell Hall at the end of a long workweek. The birds gave us both a moment of shared freedom. My last memory of George was seeing him in Wal Mart this past Christmas talking story and encouraging a couple of Fourth-Class Cadets wearing their service dress. George--you will be truly missed--but you will live on through the many young lives you mentored and inspried. Vaya con Dios mi amigo.

The bells in heaven are ringing a little louder and the angels are a little happier. How could they not be with George in their midst...the good Lord knows we all were. You shall never be forgotten George, for you were "the" example of goodness. God Bless!!

Mr. Mendes,

Our loss is great and your ribbon-filled vest can never be filled. Thanks for being such a great friend and neighbor.

George brought sanity to an otherwise hectic daily event, not to mention seconds to starving cadets. He will be dearly missed.

"Tremendous Mendes!!!" He will always be remembered for the joy in his soul that radiated outward to all that he met. His contagious smile spread relief to many cadets throughout the years.



My prayers are with the Mendes family, please know that George touched the lives of so many in a positive, and profound way.



He personified the "friendly, good, good" that often times is missing in today's fast paced world.



God Bless!

His memory brings a smile to my face, the people he helped, the example he set. His passing brings me to quiet refelction, maybe I too can try to brighten a day as much as he did.

Of the handful of memories I have of my time at the Academy, Mr. Mendes holds a prime spot. What a great human being who enjoyed his job, enjoyed interacting with the cadets, and without a doubt brightened up the days of many. He will be missed.

Thank you Mr Mendes for bringing warmth and kindness to so many cadets over the years. Your name brings a smile to all who knew you.

George's great smile, uplifting demeanor, warm friendliness, and unconditional positive regard for all of us who knew him...will not soon be forgotten. He was an inspiration and example to us all! My God keep him close...until we meet again.



Col John "JC" Cherniga

USAFA 1980

My sympathies to the Mendes family. George is a great testimony to the power of the simple things in life. His smile won't soon be forgotten. Thank you Mr Mendes, for everything.

This had to be the happiest man on earth. I hope an appropriate memorial to a great man is left behind for someone who had such a deep positive impact on so many people's lives.

Mr. Mendez,



Thank you for all that you havew done for the cadets of USAFA and your country. You, always brought a smile to our faces.

Mendez family

Mr Mendez was an outstanding example to alot of young men and women during his time at the Academy. I was not surprised to see the amount of emails that were left here by people he touched. He ensured we always got a smile and a warm welcome that we needed so much during a tough year. He will be missed.

God Bless

My deepest condolences to the Mendes family. George has meant and will continue to mean so much to so many.

"Thank you Mr. Mendes!"

Mr. Mendes, It saddens me that it was your passing that made me stop and think of my time at USAFA - something I don't think about often anymore. But because it was your life and good work that inspired the reflection, it was positive and humorous thinking. That's what you did for me in July '82, and you did it again 23 years later. Thanks and God bless.

Mr Mendes,

The USAFA grads in my office, and in squadrons and offices around the world, owe you a tremendous debt for your shining example of how you lived your life. If we could all learn to pass your smile and friendship along to others, then the world would be a far better place!



God Bless, and Thanks Mr Mendes!

Respectfully,

LtCol Don 'BoBo' Schilpp, USAF ret, '82

George,



You filled Mitchell Hall with your warmth and laughter. You made the AFA a happier place. Your smile was contagious. You were an example to us all. You lifted our spirits. Thanks for a life well lived.

George was a true American hero, without pretension, humerous, dedicated and an example of how we should all live our lives. He gave without expectation for return and brightened countless cadet lives. I honor his life by striving to give as much as he did and provide a living testimony to his fun loving, lighthearted attitude!

There is no way to capture the support that George gave to the Cadet Wing. He reminded us there was a world beyond the South Gate. His humor and personality kept many us us going. He was a true patriot. Thank you Mr Mendes...

Although Academy life produced many experiences that aren't easily forgotten, I must admit that Mr. Mendes' smile and positive attitude are among my most unforgettable. He was a master at making a bad day good and a good day great. USAFA has suffered a very unfortunate loss.

To the Mendes Family my condolences.

Like every cadet here Mr. Mendes touched all of our lives. When you thought things were bad Mr. Mendes was there to remind you that it only gets better. His sprirt of life and laugh were infectious as he was the reason many of us made it through. We will all miss him as he has finally been called home. God Bless



Maj Freeman Holifield, Jr

USAFA 94

Pentagon Washington DC

I'll never forget the time Mr. Mendes told me "Mitchell Hall is out of water" when I was sent to him as a fourth class cadet... still brings a smile to my face today. He will be missed.



Thank you George for sharing your life with all of us.



Lt Col Rob Redanz, USAFA '88

Thank you, Mr. Mendes.



Fair skies and tailwinds. We'll miss you.

As everyone has already Mr. Mendes made a miserable time fun. He is a great American. God Bless

Thank you Mr. Mendes

I am humbled by the power of a man's name to bring back memories over 24 years old. Like the many souls of the long blue line who have passed before and since, we remember a time of great stress broken up by the grace and power of a man committed to service of others. His cheerful smile, booming voice, and helpful hints to us poor freshmen helped us through the perils of a lunch at Mitchell Hall and gave us reason to smile. It is my hope that in Heaven I may have the opportunity to serve him the finest lunch, and add my voice to the thousands who have said, "Thank you Mr Mendes!" God Bless.



Scott Brockway, USAFA '85

I think that all former cadets who were fortunate to know Mr. Mendes are saddened by his death. He was such a positive influence and a fond memory from our years at USAFA. I pray that today's cadets have someone to show them that a person's worth is determined by much more than just their job description.

Thanks for serving Mighty 90! Excellent job!

As much as we feel sadness for his passing, I remind myself that we were the blessed ones to have known such a sincere and caring human being.



My sorrow is for his passing, but I feel more sorry for those who never got to know him.



A toast...

To the Mendes Family I am sorry for your loss. Like the many other posts here George had a positive affect on many cadets. Its been 8 years since I graduated from the Academy and I can still remember his smile. George you will be missed - God Bless

Not only did George always care and had a big smile for everyone, he was truly a great American. I shall always remember him for that. God bless and keep you George!

Like the thousands and thousands of other Cadets whose lives he touched and remember him with affection and respect, Thank You Mr Mendes and God bless and keep you.

Joel Henness (84)

Manny and family. Please know that we lift you in prayer and are so thankful for the opportunity to have journeyed at points in our lives with such a wonderful friend as Georgie. Fox Point would not have been as "bright and exciting" had it not been for the Mendes twins. Although we are greatly saddened at the passing of George, we know these are truly happy times in a great kingdom. We too "Thank You Mr. Mendes" for making life so fun and for all the wonderful memories.

Many people will miss the tales and stories of George. He always had a smile and a joke for everyone. He will be sorely missed by many.

To the man who always had time to chat, gave the doolies encouragement and made sure the members of the "weight gain" table get enough to eat ... a heartfelt - THANKYOU MR. MENDES! Here's a toast ...



Ron Brown

USAFA 92

Mr Mendes was the greatest! He always had a smile on his face and was never too busy to chat or listen to any of the cadets. While attending USAFA from 91-95, I had many entertaining conversations with Mr Mendes and he always made me smile - no matter how bad my day was going. One memory that stands out most of all - my junior year our squadron attended a memorial service at the Chapel for an 88 grad who died (she was in our squadron as a cadet). Mr Mendes remembered her! I saw him speaking with her parents and relaying a couple of humerous stories he remebered when she was a basic. I saw them all laughing. I knew Mr Mendes as a man who thought of others before himself and always found a way to make others laugh. He was a loving, caring man and will be missed.

While I lived with the Cadet Wing and saw George daily during my time as Fourth Group Sergeant Major/Superintendent from 1989-93, I never truly realized the impact he had on cadets or how well loved he was by them. Sure, I knew he was a great guy who always had a smile, always said hello to me, and that he was very popular with cadets, but I never understood the depth of that relationship until I was at the Class of '91's ten-year reunion in October 2001.



I sat at the same table with George, and I watched the place absolutely erupt when he was revealed as the surprise guest speaker. A loud, boisterous, standing ovation from the hundreds that were there - I can guarantee you there are very, very few individuals who would get that reaction from any USAFA class.



A truly wonderful man who I wish I'd known better, and whose character and legacy are reflected in the mark he left on so many.

to the Mendes family and all the friends that knew and love Georgie you have my deepest sympathy. I will never forget.PEACE

Manny and family I was very sorry to hear of this passing and hope that the lord will comfort the family in this time of need.

Georgie My friend:



All I can think of is what a great life he lived! As two young Cape Verdean kids growing up in the Fox Point section of Providnece, RI we did some crazy things, but had some great times and laughs. We looked out for each other, we cared for each other. I remember the time when "Charlie" overan Pleiku and we thought Everett bought the farm. We stay with Louise & Sunny until we learned that Everett made it out - alive! Little did we know that only three short years later we would be patrolling the Central Highlands (Bong Son, Tuy Hoa & all points within II Corp) with the 173rd ABN BDE (SEP). The unknown fact is Georgie was not suppose to be in the service at all, let alone Vietnam. You see, Georgie had done his time and was honorably discharged. When the call up came for the Vietnam War his brother was drafted. Because he and his brother are idnetical twins, Georgie took Manny's place in line. Georgie stood the post. Not many people would do what Georgie did. Hell while it sadden me to write this I am proud to called Georgie my friend. But I am more proud of the fact that we are "SKY SOLDIERS" brothers in arms. When things get tough, a Sky Solider's simply wipes his brow and "Drives On." That is exactly what Georgie is doing, wiping his brow and driving on.



Airborne, All the Way, my friend!



Al Lopes, Col (Ret)

Dear Manny and family, my sincere condolences on the passing of your twin. We Caboverdianos in California will keep you in our prayers. The last time I saw George was when we were all visiting at Mimi's a few years ago. I found out then that George was the leader in all those pranks you two were involved in as kids (and I always thought it was you Manny.) It was a wonderful afternoon to see you both together. God Bless. Love Lorraine (NhaChina's granddaughter)

You have my deepest sympathy.

We echo the sentiments of all our fellow graduates and our condolences go to the Mendes family. As you can see, Mr. Mendes was an academy institution and a patriot. Rest in peace "Tremendous" Mendes and thank you.

Every cadet that entered Mitchell Hall has warm memories of George Mendes... he was simply fun to be around. And if even half of his stories are true, then he is still a national treasure for his service to our country and USAFA.



Rest in peace, George.



Erik Fosshage (x'92)

Mr. Mendes was a breath of fresh air in Mitchell Hall. As our Guest Speaker at our 10th year class reunion, he was phenomenal! Thank you for your sacrifice, your inspiration, and your legacy!



On behalf of USAFA '91, our most sincere condolences to the Mendes' Family.

A true measure of a man is how many lives has his actions and decisions touched during his lifetime. George Mendes influenced the personal and professional development of thousands of US Air Force Officers, including this one.



Thank you, Mister Mendes!



Dan Simpson

USAFA '92

With his great humor, personality, Mendes touched thousands of us over the years! He gave us all the precious gift of humor and "lighten up" during those stressful times in our lives!

You will never be forgotten Mr. Mendes!!

Thanks George for sharing yourself with each of us ... you were always a tremendous person to be around. And thanks for being part of my Cadet Squadron's (31) history ... your M5 contributions made lasting impressions. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

I am just another one of the thousands of cadets that instantly think of George Mendes and smile. How his spirit was always able to lift us up and transcend any troubles or fears that we had at that time. As a freshman he provided the comfort of a father. In your second and third years he was a mentor and by the time you left you surely called him a brother and friend. He will be missed and I saddened by your lost. This is one life where there is no question that his love and soul impacted thousands and thousands. Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant!!



USAFA 94

Major Michael Black

Minot AFB, ND

Condolences to George’s family. He may have been the only reason I didn’t mind eating in Mitchell Hall during my Doolie year.

Mr. Mendes was one of those rare people you meet during your lifetime, a genuinely good man with a heart of gold. He had the amazing ability to bring cheer and hope to scared young men and women during a traumatic time in their lives. All of us "smacks" knew there was at least one sympathetic soul who cared about us in Mitchell Hall. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Mendes' family and friends. Bless you George Mendes, thank you for your support, and God Speed.

My heartfelt condolences go out to the Mendes family for their loss. Accompanying that, I wish to extend a genuine thank you for sharing George with us. He touched the lives of so many academy cadets; those that became officers and those that left sometime along the road to graduation. I can only imagine the multitude of lives he touched outside of his service to the academy. "Thank you, Mr. Mendes!"

I remember his nametag: "Tremendous Mendes - Your Leader For Life." Indeed, many thousands of Cadets learned lessons from George about how to treat others.



Thank you Mr Mendes



Mike Clark, USAFA 92

Tailwinds to you Mr. "Tremendous" Mendez.



Mike Stewart

Class of 91

I also remember Mr Mendes. It was always a pleasure to meet him. I extend my condolences to the family.



"Thank you Mister Mendes!"



Jim Gray

Class of '87

Thank you, Mr. Mendes.

I offer my prayers for his soul and condolences for his family and friends.



Thank you Mr. Mendes



USAFA '93

When I saw George Mendes' name on the e-mail title from one of my USAFA classmates, I smiled. He had the same effect on me when I was a cadet. He will always be: Fast, Neat, Average, Friendly, Good, Good--in my book! He and his family will be in my thoughts...KMC "84"

Thank you, Mr. Mendes.

My condolances on your loss. Mr. Mendes obviously touched many lives, including mine. He is, and will be, fondly remembered.



Pat Sterling, USAFA '84

To the Mendes Family:



I extend my sympathies on hearing about the passing of George. George or Mr. Mendes as we all addressed him during many a times in Mitchell Hall was just unforgettable. George made many a day during my freshman year a great moment with not only a smile but his sense of humor and jokes while we were getting yelled at by the upperclassmen at our table. he more then saved my but butt in the nick of time. It is a testament to George that he is probably remembered by just about every former cadet. if there is ever a movie made about cadet life I figure George's character will be in some scene taking place in Mitchell Hall.



Clifford Perrenod, USAFA Class of 1981

To the Mendes Family,

First of all, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy for the loss of a great American. When I heard of George's passing, I immediately recognized his

warm face, his name, but more importantly his reputation at the Air Force Academy. He always had a smile, was always excited in his job, and never failed at providing the best to us cadets. George was a tremendous example to thousands. He will be greatly missed. God bless you, from our family to yours.

USAFA-85

You find touchstones of sanity in the most unexpected places. For many new cadets that was a charismatic, helpful, friendly and understanding waiter in the middle of Mitchel Hall.



I'll add to the chorus of, "Thank you Mister Mendes!"



USAFA-84

One of the nicest guys I have had the pleasure of knowing in my AF career. A very positive memory from my days at the AFA. What an irreplaceable asset. You will be missed.



Thank you Mr Mendes.



USAFA Class of 89

Mr. Mendes was one of the nicest human beings on the face of the planet, and made life a little better for me during my time at the Academy. He'll be missed.

As if by divine intervention, he was always there at the exact right time during BCT after spending a morning on the O-Course and being tired, hungry, etc. George in his inimitable fashion always found a way to cut through it all...For that, the entire graduate community can call out--Thank you, Mr. Mendes. Thank you indeed.

George proved what an honorable life one can have in the service of others - we are grateful and humbled by his example.

He always went beyond what was required, or expected, of him -- taking the ordinary and making it extraordinary. Look at how he managed to touch so many cadets and shape us into the people we've become. Thank you, Mr. Mendez and the entire Mendez family. I hope you can find comfort in knowing what a difference his life has made to so many.

My heartfelt sympathy to the Mendes family. He was a positive force for thousands of cadets!



Dan Marticello, Maj, USAF

USAFA '92

Thanks for making so many great memories for us all, Mr Mendes. God bless you and your family. You made a difficult place a bit brighter with your smile and your wit.

Many times young cadets said "Thank you Mr Mendes" as part of a military tradition. Now as Men and Women we sincerely mean "THANK YOU MR MENDES" for helping shape our lives.

George was a friend who was always encouraging. He helped not only me but countless others make it through the rough times at the Academy. He never pulled any punches when he was telling you the truth about yourself but you always knew he really cared about you. His war stories were great. That smile of his would get bigger and bigger as the story went on. I for one will truly miss him. There are decades of cadets/officers that hold George dear to our hearts and always will. To his family, my deepest sympathy. George was quite a soldier, a gentleman and a role model of what life is all about, caring for people.

I recall during my four years at the Academy having the honor of meeting Mr. George Mendes. He wore the CIB and Master Parachutist Wings and always had a kind word. A great man that will be missed by so many whose lives he touched.



Thank You Mr. Mendes!



Charles E. Lee, II

USAFA '83

WOW...the memories...4 years as a cadet and there are so many but the cry "THANK YOU MR. MENDES!" is a HUGE one! George was ALWAYS there...as a friend, mentor, humorist, you name it; he was there.



"Cleared to altitudes above flight level 800 George...soar with the angels!"

The Air Force Academy graduate community lost a great man and friend last December in George Mendes. His sense of humor and personability were one of the many small but significant things which helped me endure my four years at USAFA. I along with thousands of grads cannot help but laugh and smile when we remember him! THANK YOU MR. MENDES!! May you rest in peace.

WELL,WHERE DO I BEGIN BECAUSE OUR FRIENDSHIP HAS TO COVER THE RESPECT WE HAD FOR ONE ANOTHER.

THIS LIST OF THINGS PALES IN COMPAIRISON OF KNOWING THE REAL MAN TEACHER,ROLE MODEL,CHEERLEADER,FATHER FIGURE,OLD SCHOOL(IN THE BEST WAY),GREAT COOK,LISTENER,ADVISOR AND MOST OF ALL MY FRIEND.

A COUPLE OF WEEKS BEFORE HIS DEATH I SAW GEORGE AT WAL-MART TALKING LAUGHING AND I GOT TO GIVE HIM SOME NEWS THAT HE TOLD ME WOULD HAPPEND SOME DAY,THAT WAS THAT I WOULD RUN MITCHELL HALL BAKERY..I GOT A BIG HUG FOR THAT ONE AND HAND SHAKE..AND THAT WAS THE LAST TIME I HEARD THAT LAUGH...I WILL MISS OUR PHONE CALLS.

I RELISH THAT MOMENT THAT HE WAS SO PROUD OF ME AND I WAS PROUD TO BE HIS FRIEND.

TOMMIE JONES JR

USAFA BAKERY SUPERVISOR

COLORADO SPRINGS,CO.

George is on his last "Long Range Patrol" and I am sure he will accomplish the mission. George and I served in B Co, 75th Airborne Rangers in the early 70s and belonged to the national and local 75th Ranger Regiment Association. He was a great guy who was always fun to be around. He "Made My Day" many times. May God place his hand on you and go with you in your travels.

Mr. Mendes was simply a terrific person. Always had a positive outlook on life, but didn't take guff from anyone either. You naturally had respect for him, and he had respect for everyone.



He will be missed.



USAFA 88

Mr. Mendes,



Your service to this country are beyond comparison. I'll always remember when you were our guest of honor at our squadron dining-in and was amazed at the stories regarding your military service. You served this country with honor.



Thanks for making me remember to smile when I was there. Thank you to your family for letting him touch our lives as well.



Rest in Peace.



Mark Chagaris

USAFA 1996

George, my friend,

You were a God-loving man that touched many lives with your kindness. Many do not know how often you laid your life on the line as an Army Ranger. I will always feel very honored that you found me worthy to be and honorary member of the 75th B CO, U.S.Army Rangers. The support you gave to others in spirit, voice and knowledge; will be remembered. You have completed your mission here on this earth, and no longer are on a LRRP in this life. My family and many others you have touched will keep you in our hearts. God bless you, and those you leave behind. You guard His gates now. Your friends, D', Danielle, Tim, and Madalynn

My condolences to the Mendes family.

I just wanted to pass on to the family of Mr. Mendes how much he had to do with shaping today's Air Force. There are so many cadets who are now officers who learned so much from and had their days brightened by him. The Academy will not be the same without him. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Always a gentleman and always willing to go the extra mile, George was admired and respected by all of us. A true institution, he is missed. My sympathies to his family.



USAFA '87

George, my dear friend,

You were a kind, God-loving man. You were there for so many people in voice and spirit. I was honored that you made me an honorary 75th B CO U.S. Army Ranger, but more honored that I could call you friend. My family and I will miss you very much. Rest easy, your mission here was completed with honor. God Bless you and yours. Thank you for all that you have done. D, Danielle, Tim, Madalynn

Rest in Peace, Mr. Mendes.



James Sanchez

USAFA Class of 1990

Always smiling, always kind...George made meal time at the hectic Academy a pleasure.



USAFA '89

George was always ready with a friendly comment or just a friendly smile to make a difficult day evaporate. He will be sorely missed.



THANK YOU MR. MENDES!



Drew Wacker '83

Mr Mendes was a mentor to many cadets while we were at the Academy. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

George will be missed, and the Academy will never be the same.

The positive impact of George Mendez on many of the leaders of the Nation is beyond measure. All Air Force Academy graduates owe him a wonderful thanks for his example of servant leadership. Thank you to Goeorge and his family for your wonderful influence in this world and your wonderful example of positive character. May God comfort you in this hour of your loss.



Steve Finch

USAFA Graduate