Richard “Rick” Mellor

Though it has been years since we were at Queen’s University together, I still have great memories of his sense of humour, kindness and outgoing personality. My deepest condolences to Rick’s family.

I didn’t have Mr. Mellor as a teacher myself, but he chaperoned our school trip to Italy in my senior year. He was a lot of fun and I’m sorry to hear of his passing.

So sorry to hear about Rick. I was writing up Christmas cards and came across his email today and decided to reach out only to find he had passed away. We were to meet up 2 years ago but it didn’t happen. I have wonderful memories of him from our Queens days. So sad he is gone he was such a wonderful guy .

Dear Mellor Family,

I am so sorry that I cannot be with you on Saturday. I wanted to share with you how deeply Rick touched my life and the lives of so many of his union colleagues.

Rick was fiercely loyal to teachers and education workers alike. Whenever he saw something wrong in the way people were being treated, he stepped forward — quietly, firmly, and without hesitation. He shared information, offered advice, and helped us advocate for members who often never knew that he was the one standing up for them. In my work as the Professional Services Officer for the Teachers’ Bargaining Unit, I came to see just how courageous, compassionate, and principled Rick truly was.

Rick was also the life of the party at AMPA — full of humour, warmth, and energy — but when it came to the issues that mattered, he was always serious, thoughtful, and deeply reflective. His balance of heart and integrity was something I admired every single year.

One moment that stays with me was watching Rick testify at the inquest into the death of Rowan Stringer. His professionalism, empathy, and care — especially knowing Rowan’s family was in the room — moved me profoundly. It revealed the depth of his character and the tremendous respect he carried for students and families.

And of course, I will never forget Rick at our Labour Day parades — joyfully cooking breakfast for everyone outside Lisgar C.I., laughing, flipping eggs, and making sure people were fed before the march. Those mornings were pure Rick: generous, good-humoured, and completely dedicated to the people around him.

Rick made a difference. He protected people. He brought joy. And he left a mark on all of us who had the privilege to walk beside him.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I hope it brings comfort to know how widely Rick was admired, and how fondly and respectfully he will be remembered.

With sympathy and solidarity,
Les

Dear Froends,

I believe Rick and I share the same birthday ( or very close ) and we were honoured for our 1st birthdays at Camp On-da-da-waks on Golden Lake near Eganville. Our fathers, Wally and Lou Labrosse, both legendary educators, worked as leaders at the summer camp. The old super 8 movies of the day captured this moment inside the fire pit area.

I attended Queen’s for my Bachelor of Education and Rick was instrumental as a co “ EDDIE “ classmate in making this year, for me and many others, one of the most enjoyable and inspiring of my life. ( His father Wally and Al Robertson also put on quite a grand show for us all )

Rick and I crossed paths many times as P E teachers, Athletic Directors, Ofssaa hosts, and on the occasional social gathering, where, here too, he excelled.

Rick was a magical, inspirational elf, with a heart the size of the Grand Canyon.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, many friends and colleagues and to the many students blessed to have been touched by his charms.

Rest in Peace my” brother “

John Labrosse ( and Denise )

Rick was my gym teacher, rugby coach, and ran our ski program at Nepean high school. He brough such an energy, humour and joy to everything he did. He also had a real understanding of his students, and enouraged many to grow and be better people. I will always remember walking through the halls, hearing Rick shout out “Bull what’s going on?” and him having a laugh and some banter. His great vibe on the ski hill was legendary. He believed in the kids he taught, had high standards for them, and wanted the best for them.

Mr Mellor was an awesome PE coach, and an amazing Rugby coach. He will be forever missed!

I had the great pleasure of going to Queens with Rick. Our paths would often cross in our proffessional roles and each time it was if no time had passed. His humour, outgoing and gregarious personality were infectious making all those around him feel welcome and included. He was a positive force in a world that is in dire need of that these days. He will be missed.

My Uncle Rick ♥️ Absolutely heartbroken that you are gone. You are so loved by everyone and I am eternally grateful that I got to have you as my uncle. I will miss you so much but your presence will always be with me. Thank you for all of the laughs and all of the love!

My tricky Ricky you will be so missed in my life but get the margaritas going I will be there soon ♥️♥️

I had the privilege to have Mr. Mellor as my basketball coach in 1993. He was a great coach. I used to hang in the coaches office during lunch listening to the gossip. It was good energy. RIP Mr. Mellor

My deepest condolences to his family. I’m a friend of Laura’s his sister and I’m truly sorry for the passing of such a wonderful person.

Rick was a good friend and neighbor to us at White Lake R.V. Park. We have many good memories. Most of all we remember how much he cared for other people. We will never forget him or his smile that could light up a room.