Kevin R Mendes

Kevin R. Mendes, known to some friends as “Space-Shot,” passed away on Friday, October 27, 2017, at the age of 60.  A native of Keyport, Kevin graduated from Keyport High School and set roots in Matawan, where he served on the Town Council from 2008-2010.  He was a member of the Raritan Road Runners Motorcycle Club; Kiwanis Club of Holmdel; and as his grandfather before him, he was a Mason with the Matawan Lodge No. 192.

Much of Kevin’s life was centered around vehicles.  Until recently sold, Kevin worked at the family business, Key Auto Body.  Moving forward, Kevin took on a new position as General Manager of Macco’s Truck Center located in Keyport.  His time around cars extended into the weekend where he meticulously worked on rebuilding vehicles including his ’78 “El, Old ’35 Ford & upgrading his ’66 & ’05 Corvettes.  A ride in any one of his favorite vehicles or on his Harley Davidson motorcycle was the perfect end to any day.  He was equally as devoted to perfection with his home, often completing the “honey-do list” projects himself.  A yearly trip to Aruba, his happy place, was something Kevin always looked forward to.  His special “gift of gab” made him an instant friend, who was always eager to help in any way he could.

A kind, sweet, compassionate, gentle man and loving husband, Kevin is survived by his wife, Peggy and their four legged children, Buster “Bucky,” Darla “D” and Waffles in heaven.  He will be missed dearly by his parents, Louis & Virginia; brother, Louis; sisters, Robbin, Luanne & Dawn & Salla Sallmen of Finland; brother & sister-in-law, Sam and Colleen Lewis; Aunt Winnie, Aunt Barbara & Uncle Tony; nephews, Wil Palmer and Bobby Mendes & a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and all who knew him.  Family, friends and others who were touched by Kevin are invited to a celebration of his life on Thursday, November 2, 2017, at Day Funeral Home, 361 Maple Place, Keyport, NJ  07735; from 2-4 & 6-8PM.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the New Lisbon Development Center, P.O. Box 130, Route 72, New Lisbon, NJ  08064 in Kevin’s name or to any animal rescue organization, would be appreciated.