Jose “Joe” L. Mendes, age 75, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, on May 22, 2024 at Baystate Medical Center. He was born on May 3, 1949 in Alcongosta, Portugal, son of the late Mario and Josephine (Rodrigues) Mendes. Joe worked as a driver for Bernardino’s Bakery for many years before he retired. He was a member of the Chicopee Portuguese American Club and the Oakridge Golf Club. He also enjoyed visiting his friends at Cigar Room II. He is survived by his wife Grace (Paulo) Mendes of Chicopee; one son Brian Mendes and his wife Nicole Mendes of Chicopee; one brother Victor Mendes and his wife Rose of Chicopee; two beloved granddaughters Alivia and Emalie Mendes of Chicopee and his godson, Timmy Mendes of Chicopee and goddaughter Juliana Lewis along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Calling hours will be held on the morning of the funeral, Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM at the Grise Funeral Home, 280 Springfield St, Chicopee followed by a Memorial Mass in St Rose de Lima Church at 1:00 PM. Burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.StJude.org . For online condolences, please visit www.GriseFH.com.