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Joseph Donald Mendes passed away at his home in Fortuna on Sunday morning, March 1, 2020. Joe was born July 10, 1952 in Scotia to Joseph and Evelyn Mendes of Ferndale.

Joe had many interests in his lifetime. He like to fish with his son and just hang out at the beach or riverbar. He shared many a good time with his lifelong friend Tom Cook. Joe was an avid sports fan and loved watching football, basketball and especially baseball.

Joe had a few occupations early on. He worked in the woods falling timber. He also was a dairyman for several years near College of the Redwoods. Then Joe went on to work in the creamery at Fernbridge. He enjoyed driving truck for the creamery and delivering milk to local businesses in the area. Joe was also a driver for a time for Lowe’s Furniture in Fortuna.

Joe was preceded in death by his only son, Quincy. Also by his father, Joseph A. Mendes.

Joe is survived by his mother, Evelyn Mendes, his brother Fred Mendes and Joyce of Denver, Colorado. Also his sisters Kathleen Jorgensen and Jeff, Debbie Martin and Rick, Joanne Smith and Jack, and several nieces and nephews.

We would like to thank his health care providers, Richard and Edgar, and also express our great appreciation to hospice care givers Hana, Coral and Deborah, along with all of the other hospice workers.

Joe requested that no service be held.