Vito T. Merlo, 88 of Upper Nazareth Twp. died on Monday, March 23, 2009 in Gracedale Nursing Home. He was the companion of Ella Ringer who passed away earlier. Born in Easton, he was the son of the late Sebastiano (Charles) and Serafina (Valerio) Merlo. Vito was a mail sorter for the Easton Branch Post Office for 30 years retiring in 1978.He served as a Corporal in the Marines during WWII and was wounded at Guadalcanal and received a Purple Heart for his service. He served in the South Pacific for 39 months where he partook in the invasion of Okinawa, Iwo Jima, Saipan and other battles. Vito was a member of St. Anthonys of Padua Catholic Church and a member of National Association of Letter Carriers Local #389 Survivors: Son: Richard A. and his wife Lesa of Chicago, IL, Daughters: Nancy L. McNally and her husband William of Phillipsburg, NJ and Linda M. Cook of Northampton. Sister: Frances Smith of Phillipsburg, NJ Brother: Robert of Bangor. Vito was preceded in death by his companion and Brothers Thomas and Charles Services: will be held on Friday, March 27, 2009 at 10 AM in Morello Funeral Home, 3720 Nicholas St, Easton PA. A calling hour will be held from 9AM until time of funeral. On line condolences may be made at MorelloFuneralHome.com Contributions: may be made to the Center for Animal Health & Welfare 1165 Island Park Rd, Easton, 18045 or the Alzheimers Assoc. 399 Market St. Suite 102 Philadelphia, 19106