Joseph 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