Obituaries

Robert J. Merilli

07/13/1936 - 05/15/2025

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Obituary For Robert J. Merilli

Robert J. Merilli

July 13, 1936-May 15, 2025

Robert J. Merilli, 88, of Altoona, unexpectedly passed away, Thursday afternoon at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late John Michael and Anne Marie (Caporuscio) Merilli.

Robert married Theresa A. Tartaglio on March 2, 1957 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years; two sons: Philip G. Merilli (Lola) of Wexford and Michael G. Merilli of Sedona, AZ; three grandchildren: Kyla T. (Merilli) Moehring (Ben), Danielle C. (Merilli) Capezzi (James) and Shelby J. (Merilli) White (Brian); three great-grandchildren: Gunnar, Arlen and Evelyn Capezzi; and his sister, Joanne Beringer of Hollidaysburg.

Robert was preceded in death by a daughter, Katherine A. (Merilli) Wagner.

He was a graduate of Altoona High School and of IUP, with a bachelor’s degree in education. Robert retired from the Altoona Area School District as Principal at Washington-Jefferson Elementary School with 32 years of service. After his retirement, he went on to teach at St. Francis University in the Education Department.

He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.

Robert was an avid bowler at Pleasant Valley Bowling, where he met his wife and he looked forward to trips with Theresa to Palm Harbor, FL for the winters.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church with the Franciscan Fathers. Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements are provided by The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602.

Online condolences may be shared at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

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Condolences

  • 05/23/2025

    Jane and Denny

    Bob was a wonderful friend. He was well liked and respected by all who knew him. Our many visits to Bob and Theresa's winter home in Florida were enjoyable. We also enjoyed our visits together here in Altoona. We have fond memories of Bob. He will be greatly missed. Theresa, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you. Blessings, Jane and Denny ❤️🙏

  • 05/18/2025

    Daniel Bauer

    Fine Christian man,teacher, educator. May the Lord Jesus Christ console his family and have mercy on his soul. May his memory be eternal!!!!.I got to know him and his beloved wife thru church and us foods cash and carry store. God bless all.

  • 05/17/2025

    Alice Sturniolo

    Theresa, I am so sad to hear of Bob's passing. We always had so much fun together with our group. He will be missed. Just remember Theresa, God will help you get through this difficult time. Love you, Alice

  • 05/17/2025

    Bob and Fran Nagle

    Dear Theresa and family, We send our deepest sympathies to all. You are in our prayers. Love, Bob and Fran

Tributes

  • 5 TREES

    Kimela J Nisely planted 5 trees in memory of Robert J. Merilli . - 05/19/2025

  • 5 TREES

    Alice Sturniolo planted 5 trees in memory of Robert J. Merilli . - 05/19/2025

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