Dec 29, 1926 - Feb 23, 2018
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Fred Merlo at the age of 91. Fred passed away in hospital with his family by his side. He was predeceased by his father Federico Merlo, who passed away on the same date in 1942, his mother Virginia Maria as well as his wife of 49 years Yvonne (nee Lawlis).
After graduating from Vancouver College, Fred returned to Trail, worked for the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, and later assumed the role of managing the Union Hotel, the 1144 Cedar Avenue building, and the family property at Blueberry.
Fred rarely missed an opportunity to go out with family and friends. His passions revolved around local and regional journalism, CBC Radio and television news, the Catholic Church, good meals and socializing. He was also a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus and the Colombo Lodge, and he served as a regional director for the BC Hotelman's Association.
Fred was extraordinarily patient, gentle and kind - a good and decent man by all accounts. He was quick witted and loved making ironic remarks and telling a good story. He had absolutely no malice in him, and never uttered an unkind word about anyone. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Fred will be forever missed by his three daughters, Christine Mahony (Chris), Catherine Merlo (Rob Giannetto), and Patricia Phelan (Tim). He was exceptionally proud and fond of his grandchildren Maria, Angelica, Elise, Anthony, Caitlin, Lily and Peter, who loved him dearly.
Fred is also survived by his sister Josephine Mayne, his cousins Rino Merlo and Tulio Nonis, and sisters-in-law Leone Rintoul, Mikki Hamagami, Donna Ross (Terry) and Debbie Mickelson (Peter), as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Rosary will be held on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 7:00 pm at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish. Father Francis dela Cruz will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial in Fred's honour at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in East Trail on Friday, March 2, 2018 at 10:30 am, followed by burial at Mountain View Cemetery in Rossland and a reception at the Colombo Lodge in the Gulch. Bill Clark of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family's online register at www.myalternatives.ca
Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services