Obituary of Natale F. Merlo

Brookfield, CT Mr. Natale (Nee/Nat) Frank Merlo, age 101, of Brookfield, CT, died Sunday February 16, 2020 at home at The Village of Brookfield Commons. He was predeceased by his loving wife Libby (Fortino) Merlo. Natale was born December 17, 1918 in Easton, Pennsylvania son of the late Salvatore and Mary (LaMonica) Merlo. He served in the Army during World War II in the South Pacific front, and was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart medals. He was incredibly proud of his service to his country. Natale worked for over sixty years in the footwear industry in many different jobs from shoemaker to shoe salesman. While raising their two children and caring for their family, Natale and Libby resided in Whitestone, Queens, New York City. Upon retirement, the couple moved to CT to be near their children and grandchildren. Natale was proud of his Italian heritage and adored the New York Yankees. He was truly loved by family and friends and should be remembered by his wonderful sense of humor. He simply wanted people to laugh and be happy. He was an outstanding family-man and role model. Natale is survived by his children: Marie E. Mullins and her husband Earl and Salvatore P. Merlo and his wife Laurie; his grandchildren: Marisa Merlo Bangs and her husband Richard, Lauren Merlo, Stefan Merlo and his wife Megan, Amanda Mullins Paine and her husband Harrison, Jenna Merlo, and Gregory Merlo and his wife Gabriella; and his Great Grandchildren Norah, Natalie and Connor Bangs. Natale was buried here in Willowbrook Cemetery in Westport, CT in the presence of his cherished family. The family wishes to thank all of the very caring people of Glen Crest in Danbury and The Village of Brookield Commons where Natale spent his last years of a happy life.