Joseph H. Merlino
Joseph H. Merlino, 97, of Peoria AZ died on February 16, 2013, in Hospice of AZ after a short illness. Born January 8, 1916 in Greensburg, PA, he was a son of the late Joseph & Maria Manchini Merlino. He worked for Baltimore Life Insurance Company and LCBA prior to retirement. His greatest love was music and he led the Jack Merlin Orchestra for 65 years starting in PA with his five brothers, and then continuing with the band when relocating to AZ. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his 3 brothers; Louis, Nick, & John, and 3 sisters; Elsie, Elizabeth & Camille. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Lila G., daughter Mary Theresa Davies (husband Bill) of AZ, son Robert Merlino of CA, one grandson Anthony of CA (wife April), and two great grandchildren, Isabella & Noah. Also surviving are two brothers; Paul of NH, and Bernard of NJ., along with 3 step-sons, Ron, Larry, & Jeff, and several nieces & nephews. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joachim & St. Anne Roman Catholic Church in Sun City, AZ on Wednesday, March 27, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. where he served as an usher for several years. He was a kind and gentle soul, loving husband and father who will be greatly missed by his family and friends
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My best friend’s father was such a nice man. I didn’t have much contact with him but through his daughter, Mary T. He reared a beautiful family.
Mary T., I am so sorry to hear about your father. I know that you will miss him greatly. Take care.
My deepest sympathy to you Mary T. and to your family. Your Dad was a truly special person and was so glad to have met him. We had a great time at Steeler Camp with him. He was very content sitting in the shade just watching the Steelers at his old college – St. Vincent. Take care.
Robert (my love), Mary and Lila, I am so sorry and sad for your loss. I feel blessed to have had the chance to meet Joseph Merlino (Jack Merlin), listen to his band, hear his stories and see his warm smile. Everyday when I fix my hair I think of him and my egg beater
. Love him and miss him.
So Sorry to hear Mr. Merlino died. I will never forget him. Growing up next door, listening to him play the trumpet. He was a nice man. He gave me advice 35 years ago when I first started my business about putting money away for retirement. I really wish I had listened to him. Rest In Peace!
I will miss you Poppa Joe very much. I have known you for the majority of my life. You taught
Me so much. To forgive and to love.
You were caring, loving and always there for
Us.
I remember you playing with Anthony scrabble.
I remember every birthday and Xmas receiving
Your special Hallmark cards. Your thoughtfulness
Will be missed. I will miss your visits and our
Special time spent together .
I loved you as my father. I will certainly miss you.
The world has lost a great man.
I will see you again my loving dad.
With much love your daughter Debbie.
My deepest sympathies to Mary Theresa, Bill, Robert & Lila for your loss. I have the fondest memories of your dad driving us all over creation to Bishop McCort in the mornings, to dances at the Grove, etc. He never complained about us using him for a taxi, he just smiled all the time and whistled a happy tune as we drove along. He was a wonderful man that had the most awesome outlook in life. Wouldn’t the world be a terrific place if everyone could be like JOE MERLINO ! May he Rest in Peace !
Robert,
My deepest condolences to you and your family for the loss of your dad. Wow- 97 years old! I very much remember the last time I met your dad. He had that smile and sparkle in his eye that you could never forget. He will be greatly missed.