IN MEMORIAM

Thomas J. Merlino Sr., 82

Oct. 10, 1938–Dec. 24, 2020

ONEONTA – Thomas M. Merlino, Sr., 82, passed away December 24, 2020 at his home with his family by his side.

Tom was born October 10, 1938 in Syracuse, the son of Angelo and Concetta (Amato) Merlino.

He was a United States Army veteran, serving from 1954-1958 and was discharged from the Reserves in 1968.

Tom married Dolores Rheaume on October 7, 1961 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Syracuse.

Tom was in partnership with Al Bagnard at The Travelers Motel and Golf Course from 1971-1976.  He was a manager in the shoe department at Jamesway in Oneonta for 34 years. He then worked for Ames Department Store in Norwich and Spaulding’s Bakery for several years, as well as in the family business Shady Ideas at the Oneonta Southside Mall.

Sunday’s at the Merlino house was well known for Sunday dinners with family and many friends.  Tom and his family vacationed to Florida, Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach yearly from 1969, enjoying the food and meeting many friends.  He enjoyed writing funny short stories, many of which were about the fictitious 39 cent store.

He was a member of the Oneonta Elks Club and Oneonta St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, Dolores Merlino of Oneonta; his children, Kim and husband, Shawn Scott of Fredericksburg, VA and Chris Merlino of Oneonta; grandchildren, Shane and Cierra Scott, Matthew Fischer and was known as “Peepaw” to Christina Merlino.

He was predeceased by his parents; two sons, Tommy and Scott Merlino; and his brothers and sisters.

A graveside service at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Oneonta, will be announced at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com  Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta, is handling the arrangements.