Trending
Robert J. Merilli, 88, of Altoona, unexpectedly passed away Thursday afternoon at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Altoona, 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, Ariz.; 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 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 Saint 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. He also looked forward to their trips to Palm Harbor, Fla., for the winter.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. 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 Eighth Ave., Altoona.
Online condolences may be shared at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook page.