In Memory of S. Joseph Meelan

The Lord has called home a man of integrity, wit, and charm. On December 29, 2025, S. Joseph (Joe) Meelan, age 82, surrounded by his loved ones, left this world. 

Joe was born on January 15, 1943 in Binghamton to proud parents Frances and Nelson Meelan and big sister Sally. He attended Lourdes Elementary School, graduated from Utica Catholic Academy, and continued his education at Catholic University in Washington DC. 

Joe’s spirit of service began with his achievement of Eagle Scout and remained a constant throughout his life. Joe served 6 years in the Army Reserves. He was very proud to achieve the rank of First Sergeant and enjoyed his time connecting with fellow soldiers. He had a passion for his community and greater Utica. He was involved in various organizations including Cornell Cooperative Extension, Pathfinder Village, and Downtown Utica revitalization, to name a few. 

Joe proudly carried on his family’s business and built Meelan Floors into the business it is today. Joe relished in the day to day, the major projects and the important connections he made with his customers. The “good Meelan feelin’” was more than just a motto, it was his passion. 

In Joe’s spare time, he enjoyed playing golf with friends. Joe always found time to work in the yard. His property looked like a park thanks to Joe’s meticulous care. 

On November 30, 2001, Joe married Susan Shannon. Together, they shared 24 years of love, friendship and respect. Family always came first and fun was sure to follow. 

Joe treasured his family and the time they shared. He is survived by his children, Mark and wife, Jacquie Meelan and Kyra and Judd Werner, and grandchildren, Rylee Calidona and Alec Meelan. 

He leaves his devoted wife, Sue and his stepchildren and friends Shannon and Brandon Partenza, and JJ and Andrea Valent. Joe was loving Joe-Joe to and adored by grandchildren Lily, Noah, and Jane Partenza and Luca, Nina, and Anna Valent. 

He will be missed by his loving sister, Sally Mellen, nieces and great nephews, his in-laws Jim and Barb Shannon, Phillip and Donna Shannon and Sandy Clute, and special friends Rev. John Rose, Jim Miles, Rene Roefaro, Tony and Gloria Partenza, Buck and Anita Fernalld, and Dan and Jackie Spooner. Joe loved his pets so very much and he is missed by his furry friends Bud, Patti Shea, and Andie. 

He is predeceased by his parents Nelson and Frances, brothers in law Ray Mellen and Billy Shannon, sisters in law Patti Vivyan and Sharon Shannon, and mother and father in law Marian and James Shannon. 

In keeping with Joe’s wishes, he will be celebrated in a mass of Christian burial on January 2, 2026, 1:30pm at Historic St. John’s Church, where Joe was a faithful communicant. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Friedel, Williams, & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joe’s name to Historic St. John’s Church or the Abraham House. Both places brought comfort and peace to Joe and his family. 

Joe’s final days of his long fought battle were spent in the loving comfort of the Abraham House. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff there.