John Natale Merlo, 70, of Palmer Twp. passed away on Monday, March 20, 2023. Born on October 23, 1952 in Phillipsburg, NJ, he was the son of the late John J. and Mildred J. "Honey" (Mari) Merlo. He graduated from Easton Area High School, class of 1971 and earned his Bachelor's Degree in Special Education from East Stroudsburg University. John had worked for the IU-20 and was very dedicated to his work. Upon his retirement John worked for Morello Funeral Home, Inc. for 10 years.  He was a member of National Education Association, PA State Education Association and Easton Area Education Association.

John could brighten anyone's day with his funny stories and cheerful attitude. You could never have a bad day when he was near. He enjoyed many beach vacations with his family. He relished a beautiful day with a round of golf with good friends. He was a member of the Liberty Hose Golf League.  He also enjoyed a 38-year tradition of fishing trips to Canada with lifelong friends for the "CAN-AM Bass Blast"

John is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Melonie (Macario) Merlo; son Joseph Merlo and his fiancée, Priscilla Katz; daughter Mari Merlo and her fiancé, Ryan Flanagan; and a sister, Marlene A. Rhodes.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, March 26, 2023, from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm with a prayer service at 5:00 pm in Morello Funeral Home, Inc., 3720 Nicholas Street, Easton, PA (Palmer Twp.) An additional calling hour will be held Monday, March 27, 2023 from 8:15 am until 9:15 am in the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 27, 2023, at 10:00 am in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Nineth and Lehigh Streets, Easton, PA. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family in Gethsemane Cemetery. Donations in memory of John may be made to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 900 Washington Street, Easton, PA 18042 or a charity of your choice.  Online condolences may be offered at www.morellofuneralhome.com