Jesse Mendoza

I loved Jesse Mendoza, more than he probably realized. Out of all the classmates I had, from John Deere, to Moline High School, Jesse and his wife Tilli, are the only classmate that ever invited over to their house, when I’m in town. I’ve had several Track and Field teammates, over my Jr. High School, and senior high school years, that have never invited me over to their house. Several years ago, Jesse had a party at his house, and Sid Anders, Flip Anders, Ray Kelso, and myself, were invited, as well as some other student athletes.  Jesse was never afraid to invite minorities into his household, wondering, what his neighbors might think having all these African Americans coming into his house. Even when I was in grade school, (at Francis Willard) none of my class mates were allowed to invite any (Colored kids) into their house, while celebrating their birthdays. (Back in the fifties, African Americans were known as (Colored people)! I met Jesse for the first time, in 7^th grade, because he challenged me to a wrestling match on the football field. Both Jesse and I rolled around on the grass, what seemed like 20 minutes. After it was all said and done, Jesse and I became lifelong friends. I remember running in the state Track and Field meet, in Champaign, and always seeing Jesse Mendoza, sitting in the stands, supporting our Track Team, and always having that big smile on his face. I was home in the Quad-Cities in 2023 for a family reunion, and because of all the running around I did for a couple of weeks, I didn’t get a chance to visit my favorite classmate, (Jesse Mendoza). I remember when heading back to Arizona, I was mad at myself, for not visiting Jesse and Tilli, while I was home. So I decided to place Jesse on my number one priority list, in 2026, when I come home for my next family reunion.  Obviously, that’s not going to happen now, that a beautiful soul, like Jesse has been called to a higher authority. I want to leave a message to my friend Jesse Mendoza, (“We’ll meet again someday, and I’ll be able to laugh at all your jokes again, seeing that big smile on your face”)! 

I LOVE YOU JESSE!  (May you RIP)!

So many memories over so many years. Too many to recall here. Just want to say that Jesse always had a smile and a welcoming manner. He and Tilli were fun, but more importantly, they were/are good friends. They have many. Our condolences to the family.
Rick & Sylvia Anderson

I had a great conversation with Jesse at the 60th Reunion.  He mentioned he was still doing electrical work for people in need.  He was always an exhuburant person person with q great smile.  I wrestled one year and remember Jesse as a fierce competitor whose great smile would prevail even while he was wiping the mat with  me.  RIP  & Sempe Fi  

This is a sad day. Jess was a great guy. Condolences to every person that loved him- for the loss of him in our life. 
Clark Miner