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Captain Frank Merlo
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CAPTAIN FRANK MERLO, CD Passed away in Toronto on July 6, 2010, beloved son of Angelica Merlo. Predeceased by his father Vito. Cherished brother of Angela (Donato) Tocci and Josie (Lucio) Nespolo. Loving uncle to Kristin, Jennifer, David, Stephanie and doting great-uncle to Sarina. Frank was born in Sicily, Italy and arrived in Canada at 22 months. His love for music was evident at a very young age. It is not surprising that he became a vocal music teacher with the Toronto Catholic District School Board where he had a long musical career, engaging thousands of children in various performances. Frank was extremely creative, dedicated and resourceful as well as being instrumental in promoting the talents of his students. Frank joined the Canadian Forces as a bandsman in February 1976. He transferred to the Governor General's Horse Guards in 1979 where he served first as a non-commissioned member achieving the rank of Master Warrant Officer in 1994 and then commissioning to Captain in 1995 as the Director of Music. Frank was awarded the Canadian Forces decoration in February of 1988 with clasps in 1998 and 2008. Frank joined the Knights Hospitallers of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem in July 2001. In 2009, he was inducted into the Order of St. George. The void that will be felt by his absence can only be reconciled by recalling the many happy shared memories. Visitation will be at the Bernardo Funeral Homes (2960 Dufferin St., south of Lawrence Ave.) on Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, July 12, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Fidelis Catholic Church (33 Connie St. - off Rustic Rd., east of Keele St.). Entombment will follow in Forest Lawn Mausoleum (4570 Yonge St., north of Highway 401 - entrance of Franklin Ave.). In lieu of flowers, a donation in Frank's memory may be made to the Governor General's Horse Guards.



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Published in Toronto Star from Jul. 9 to Jul. 10, 2010.
Memories & Condolences
Guest Book sponsored by cpl Pierre Marchessault, hornist

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80 entries
February 3, 2019
Here is the full picture.
Pierre Marchessault
February 3, 2019
Sgt. Frank Merlo (1991) @CFS Music, Borden
I think 1991 was the year I met Sgt Merlo at CFS Music in CFB Borden. What a great guy he was. He helped me out the best he could. I noticed him right away. A TRUE musician full of life and kind (so few there were so genuine and kind as he was. That's probably why we became friends). Just ended up on this photo today and thought I would share it with all of you guys. Let's take him as a role model that he is and change other people's lives around us in his loving memory. He still is living in our memories and close to our hearts to this day. May God bless him and protect him always.
Pierre Marchessault
March 12, 2017
I'm not entirely sure what it was this morning of March 12, 2017 that made my mind run across this incredible man. Perhaps it was a dream or a quick thought, but nostalgia would have its way and had me reminisce about D'Arcy McGee Catholic School. Instantly Mr. Merlo was the first person who I saw in my mind and a song called 'Confidence' echoed. Truthfully, I had no idea he had passed on until, well, now. He was a great person who shared his gift and love of music and encouraged us all to do the same. I know this comes late on my end, but to Mr.Merlo's family, friends and students I express my deepest condolences and sympathies. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. God bless you Frank Merlo. You will always and forever be our music teacher...our friend. May we see each other again. Peace.
Nicholas Campbell
December 8, 2010
My dearest condolences to the family of frank merlo.
I remember having him as a music teacher many years ago. He was great and it's sad to hear that he is gone.
God Bless.
DR
November 11, 2010
On this day of Rememberance, I can't help to think of Mr. Merlo. As a child, his Rememberance Day ceremonies always made an impact on me. He taught me the value of music, that if you practised hard enough, the notes would become a tune and that to be a good Canadian - remembering the military was important. Thank you Mr. Merlo. I will never forget.
Vanessa Gonzalez
September 29, 2010
I go to Holy Rosary School where Mr. Merlo used to teach. He was a great teacher. He brought us to City Hall and let us audition for Toronto Children's Chorus...He will be missed.
Hannah Beltran
September 25, 2010
Today, I sadly found out that Cpt. Frank Merlo, the musical director of the Governor Gerneral Horse Guards (GGHG) and former Canadian Forces School of Music hornist passed on. Many hours have passed. I’m still in a major shock. Canada has definitely lost one of its greatest gentlemen. A proud Canadian.

I first met Frank at the CFSMUS back in the early 1990’s. We played in the same section. He was always cheerful and positive despite any difficulty that might come his way. About a decade later, in 1999, he welcomed me to join his band in North York. Since I didn’t own a French horn at the time, he readily and gladly offered to lend me his very own, totally free, so I could join the band. To this day, I can’t think of many people with such a beautiful spirit of heart as this man.

Dear Frank, we will always remember your dedication to music. Your nice heart, generosity and genuine smile that would make us outperform at each concert or ceremonial parade. I will always remember these great moments playing under your direction. You are definitely the best officer I ever served under in my military career. Rest in peace my friend, the one we affectionately called: Frank.

All my sympathies are directed to all his siblings and his mother he so dearly love. Also to friends and former colleagues: Colin Rowe, Paul Bannerman and all the musicians that worked with him during his musical career.

If there is anything I could do to help in any way, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Sincerely,
Pierre Marchessault
July 22, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
M.J. Stokes
July 20, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jo-Anne Fabbro
July 19, 2010
I was shocked to hear of Frank's death we sat beside each other for many years playing our horns together for the Royals. My thoughts are with his family and may you rest peacefully where ever you are Frank.

Heather Pulfer
July 18, 2010
With fond memories of a wonderful person. Frank Merlo will remain in our thoughts and prayers always.
L. Lirette
July 16, 2010
it was with great sadness that we say goodbye to a wonderful person, whenever we saw each other he always had a funny story and a great laugh. He will be sadly missed by all.Sincere condolences to the entire family.
Rosie DiFilippo
July 14, 2010
St. Raymond's Class of 1971 Reunion
Maria Marra
July 14, 2010
St. Raymond's Reunion 2007
Maria Marra
July 13, 2010
This was a complete shock to me, but as they say "only the good die young". Frank and I visited many countries together and had a lot of fun over the many years that I called him my best friend. May God bless his soul.
July 13, 2010
To Frank's family,
Heartfelt condolences to all of you. Frank and I attended teachers' college together at U. of T. I still have this image of him holding a shining brass instrument on a warm May morning while a few of us were sitting on the steps of FEUT. We were all smiling enjoying the first warm days of spring as we were getting ready to graduate and embark on our teaching careers.
Franka Cautillo
July 13, 2010
Our most sincere condolences to the whole Merlo family.We were very saddened to hear of the loss of Frank.Many happy memories to remember.A very special and loved person.Our love to all and our prayers will be with you on this difficult moment. Gagliardini family.
Enza Gagliardini
July 12, 2010
Candace Richardson
July 12, 2010
I think this was taken on his 50th birthday!
Candace Richardson
July 12, 2010
Frank, was the first member of the Regiment I met when I came to Canada, the impression he left me with I shall never forget. When I heard the sad news of his passing I was shocked and stunned. Frank "Nuli Secundus" was you, "Second to None". May the Good Lord take you into his care, RIP my friend. JJ
John Johnson
July 12, 2010
Captain Merlo had a profound gift of sharing his love of music with everyone around him. His passion and dedication was the kind that inspired you to want to become a better musician and he will be missed dearly.
Serena Chin
July 12, 2010
Bitter news, bitter tears to shed.

I read recently that in Greek mythology, the three goddesses called The Fates, would mock attempts by mortals to extend their lives because it was them, the Deities, who determined everyone's life span. Clotho would spin the thread representing life, Lachesis would measure its length, and Atropos would cut it - and presto, the date of a person's death was immutably set. Clotho spun for Frank a challenging life; but I don't know how Lachesis measured its length, and I certainly cannot understand why Atropos cut it where she did.

I do know we have lost an irreplaceable friend.

A face radiant with excitement and good-humour; a sensitive well-honed ear matched with skilful hands; a gold heart, large and naturally compassionate; a soul that reached out beyond concepts of wrong-doing and right-doing. He had a clear way of approaching things: with simplicity, subtlety, compassion and grace.

To his family we send our love and support, and even more, our thanks for bringing Frank to us. I recognize that the depth of your loss is immeasurable

To his friends, colleagues and students, we send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences.

Great lives always seem brief. He will be truly missed, but fondly remembered.

Joseph Pichini and Family
July 12, 2010
Too soon, Frank; too soon.
Steve Harris
July 12, 2010
To the entire family, we send out our most heartfelt condolences. The lovely sound of music that Frank so loved will wrap itself around you all and bring you comfort in these days of sadness. all our love
Nick , Joanne and Rosie DiFilippo, Mary and Tony Santoli, Joe and Antonette DiFilippo and Donna and Arlindo DeSousa
Mary Santoli
July 12, 2010
Mr. Merlo was an amazing teacher. He taught me when I was at D'Arcy. He will be greatly missed by the students and staff of D'Arcy McGee and all the other schools he taught at. My condolences to the whole Merlo family. Rest in Paridise Mr Merlo <3
Stephanie C
July 12, 2010
My deepest condolences to the Merlo Family. I knew Frank during our younger days at St. Raymond's. He was the cute kid.
Mary Bernardo
July 12, 2010
I was suddenly shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of a wonderful friend and colleague like Frank a true tireless musician and an inspiration to us all: he loved music and he inspired many young children.
May the choir of Angels welcome you to the presence of God. My prayers will be with all your family.
Daniel Colla
July 12, 2010
I and the whole music department and especially you students will miss you dear Frank. May the choir of Angels welcome you in the presence of the Father in Heaven. You were an inspiration and tireless model to all of us music teachers. My prayers are with all you family. Daniel Colla.
daniel Colla
July 12, 2010
July 12, 2010
"CNE-OP Connect Summer 2009"
July 11, 2010
Mr.Merlo and I after he presented me with my recorder diploma.
Kris Pangilinan
July 11, 2010
Mr.Merlo, you were the world's greatest music teacher, hands down no one could be better than you were. You taught me to play the recorder, sing Silent Night by myself as a soloist at a holy rosary xmas concert. Your jokes were the best. Every Halloween i would wait for your joke about the alien from the roof eating your record. I always loved to carry your stuff. One time we helped you and you even treated us to pizza. I will never forget you saying that i was invited to your retirement party. Mr.Merlo i still cant believe you are gone. Something i would never imagine would be true. No one would ever be a better music teacher. You are irreplaceable. I will miss you sir. May You rest with Our Lord, and God. You are ready to see the light of heaven, and you will be teaching music up there. Bye Mr.Merlo Rest In Paradise
Kris Pangilinan
July 11, 2010
"CNE-OP Connect Summer 2009"
July 11, 2010
You have enlightened our lives with your talented spirit, warm voice and generous heart. Holy Rosary will cherish you always. God Bless you Mr. Merlo, our beloved teacher and friend.
Mary & John Sebastiao
July 11, 2010
Mr. Merlo, Thank you for all your love and support and for teaching me to love & cherish music as much as you did. You guided me throughout my years at H.R. and even after when I would visit the school. Rest In Paradise.
Angeli San Juan
July 11, 2010
My condolence to all of you. Frank will be missed at the recorder festivals which he coordinated for all at D'Arcy McGee.
Tony Ellis
July 11, 2010
I only met Captain Merlo a few times when I sat in on GGHG band rehearsals but I was impressed by his skill and kindness. I know he will be greatly missed.
Doreen Fraccaro
July 11, 2010
I wish to send my condolences to the Merlo family, and to the GGHG band.
Capt. Diane Stecher (Ret'd)
July 11, 2010
The lights in the skies over 32CBG are a little dimmer as another of our stars has gone to the heavens.
Frank, you left us far too soon. I think back on the times we have spent together not only as serving musicians, but as fiends.
Weather standing on a stage, a parade square, or a tattoo field you always gave 100%.
It will be tough to fill the void you have left.
Rest in peace brother, rest in peace.
D/Maj. Mike Morello, CD.
Drum Major
Band of the Royal Regiment of Canada
Mike Morello
July 11, 2010
Thank you for introducing me to the band, for taking me under your wing for the first few years, and for all the stories and memories that I will always keep with me. You will be greatly missed.
Michael Di Tommaso
July 11, 2010
Our music paths crossed many times over many years, on behalf of the pipes & drums, our deepest condolences to the family and band of Captain Merlo.
Drum Major Iain McGibbon
July 11, 2010
My condolences. Thank you for your kindness, your smiles, your laughs...Thank you. It was an honour and a pleasure being a small part of your big life.
Yu Maemura
July 11, 2010
Mr.Merlo you will be dearly missed by all those who knew you but never forgotten.Your memory will live on in all those who had the opportunity to meet you.My thoughts and prayers are with the Merlo family in their time of sorrow.Rest in peace Mr.Merlo.
Second To None
Shelley Batchelor
July 10, 2010
To everyone in the GGHG Band, Family and Students/teachers:

"Nulli Secundus!" This rings true now more then ever. RIP Capt Merlo, you will be missed by your students and everyone who knew you. Your passion for teaching and music definitely had a profound effect and will live on for years to come. Hang in there, the music world is a family...lean on each other for support and strength.

Remember the good things.....I'm sure I'm not the only one that remembers being in the band room and him suddenly singing/making up a song about someone or yourself (always good/nice things). Priceless moments.....It's at times like this when we should reflect on those memories. You were a friend, mentor and an all around special person. We will all truly miss you. You always had the silliest little jokes to tell and interesting stories. You were the one music director out of Toronto that even met my parents at the concert up in Neustadt back in 2004 as well. Something I will never forget that was brought back to me by seeing his horn set-up today was how kind and caring he was. I busted my instrument once and out of the kindness of his heart he loaned me his, no questions asked.

We are all thankful you are no longer suffering, but I know I'm not the only one that wishes it was in recovery and not like this. God Bless you Frank! Nulli Secundus, Second to none!
Crystal Mallory
July 10, 2010
Frank, you will always be a bright light in the memory of all the children you inspired with music and laughter and a warm-spirited friend to all the people you met in your lifetime. Your mother and family are in my prayers during this difficult time for them. An old friend.
Mary Stepien
July 10, 2010
My deepest condolences and prayers are with the family. May your memories and love for Frank support you during this difficult time. God bless and heal you all.
Theresa Muller
July 10, 2010
Mr Merlo has been part of my life for the last 26 years! My sisters and I were students at D'Arcy McGee and we had the pleasure of having him as our teacher for 8 years. I then went to highschool and met his wonderful niece Jennifer. Then I became a teacher myself and worked for Mrs Nespolo. He was like family. My sisters and I as former students now all teachers had the pleasure of meeting with him one evening for dinner and what a great time we had. Those memories will be forever. I will never forget his love and passion for teaching. My sincere condolences to the whole family.
Stephanie (Galati) Bento
July 10, 2010
Mr.F.Merlo will always be within the hearts of the students and teacher's of D'Arcy McGee. He will always be in our memories and will not be forgotten. He helped us all do our best and taught us to be the best person you can ever be. He enlightned us with his Christmas Carols to making his cheerful concerts. He will be forever loved.
Domenic P
July 10, 2010
Your sense of humour and warm smiles will be missed at our yearly music workshops.
Antonietta Marra
North York
July 10, 2010
I worked with Frank many years ago at Holy Rosary. He was so enthusiastic and positive. One of my most vivid memories is at a special occasion at the school, hearing the bagpipes playing Mull of Kintyre, all planned by Frank. It was a very moving experience. Whenever I hear that song I think of Frank. Now it will have an even more special meaning for me.
Rest in peace Frank. My thoughts are with the Merlo family.
Doris Karatoprak (nee Webster)
July 10, 2010
Captain Frank Merlo, the name we will never forget. Sir you taught me well, from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 (recorder). Joining recorder was something I would never regret because even you said to me it will help you in the future, which I realized it is. We will always remember the fun times we had and events you planned for us, (We were very honoured to play at Queens Park, alot of history we learned that day). You were a great man, always running around (Doing things for your students) and you never let anything bring you down when it became difficult..Personally I never forget when we were in kindegarten and it was Hallowe'en you always had something special for us. When I heard the news I was deeply heartbroken, going back to D'Arcy McGee to visit will NOT be the same without you there showing the children of the future the beauty of music. I send out my condolences to his family and friends, you will be greatly missed.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.
The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God

We will all miss you! <3
Amanda C
July 10, 2010
This lit candle is from grade 1 Students; Kayla and Melody, they will miss him dearly and even the hearing of the events brought a tear in these little girls eyes.
Harmony;Melody;Kayla C
July 10, 2010
Mr Merlo will always be remembered at D'arcy McGee, and he was an inspiration to all the students he taught, and we will remember his little jokes, those little songs he makes up about people, and what he taught us. I will remember how he always mixed my name up with my sisters (Melody), and our favorite song we used to sing in grade 6, "The Cat Came Back".

God Bless;
Harmony C
July 10, 2010
Frank, your passing was a shock, especially since I had hoped you were going recover from your suffering. My prayers are with your family, both at home and GGHG Regimental family.
Nick Arrigo
July 10, 2010
Good-bye Frank. We spent many concerts and many memorable band trips over the years together---your absence will be felt.
Douglas Hopp
July 9, 2010
Frank helped me find my place in the family to which I truly belonged. Words simply are not enough at this time.
Mark Powney
July 9, 2010
Many memories and just as many great times to look back on thanks to you Frank.
God bless you Frank, God bless you.

Drum Major, CWO Ron Scott, CD, RRC, Ret'd.
Ronald L. Scott
July 9, 2010
My prayers and condolences go out to you and the family. Mr. Merlo was my daugther's music teacher at D'Arcy McGee and she always enjoyed being in his class and had nothing but good things to say about Mr. Merlo. He will be truly missed.
Charlene Rousseau
July 9, 2010
My sincere condolences to Capt Merlo's family. His was a great contribution to the Regiment. He will be missed.
Sgt (Ret'd) Carlos Crispim
July 9, 2010
I was a student at D'arcy McGee and i graduated this year. Mr.Merlo was a very cheerful, and happy teacher. He always thought about others before himself and thats why when i heard this i thought it was never true, until i realized this is life. I keep my prays and thoughts to his family and friends and i;m sorry.
R.I.P. Mr.Merlo you will never be forgotten by D'arcy McGee's students and teachers and others.
Alisa Pereira
July 9, 2010
ON BEHALF OF MY WIFE AND MYSELF I WOULD LIKE TO GIVE OUR SINCERE CONDOLENCE TO THE MERLO FAMILY. I WILL MISS SEEING FRANK ON TUESDAY AT REVERSALS. MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF THE MERLO FAMILY

YOURS TRULY ROBERT AND BETH DAY
HAROLD DAY
July 9, 2010
We will terribly miss you, You were a great teacher to us, & now that we graduated this year from D'arcy it was the saddest thing we could hear. We all enjoyed your passion for music & we loved you, you will be missed forever. In behalf of the Graduating class of D'Arcy Mcgee of 2010.
Andrea Silva
July 9, 2010
Captain Frank Merlo was my music teacher at school. Im so sad to hear from him that he died. He was a good music teacher.
Rachel Ganza
July 9, 2010
My prayers for you and your family. I saw Frank at our grade school reunion in 2007 and we had seen him one other time in 2008. It was so great to see him and to reminisce of our days at St Raymond's Catholic School and of all the mile stones that we had reached in our lives. He will be sorely missed. Maria Marra class of 1971 (Toronto,ON)
July 9, 2010
Frank Merlo was an inspirational music teacher, that touched that hearts of those around him. My children, Daniella and Onorio Vitti have shared many fond memories of their days at D'Arcy McGee and Frank Merlo inspired them to develop a love for music. We would like to express our deepest sympathy to Captain Frank Merlo's family. Captain Frank Merlo will be missed dearly.
July 9, 2010
Frank Merlo was an inspirational music teacher, that touched that hearts of those around him. My children, Daniella and Onorio Vitti have shared many fond memories of their days at D'Arcy McGee and Frank Merlo inspired them to develop a love for music. We would like to express our deepest sympathy to Captain Frank Merlo's family. Captain Frank Merlo will be missed dearly.
Mena Vitti
July 9, 2010
Our times together and long conversations will be remembered forever. My deepest condolences to the Merlo family. Vince Ammendolia
July 9, 2010
Capt. Frank Merlo had brought music to Holy Rosary Catholic School. His legacy for the love of music is eternal. Thank you very much for sharing your talent to our children. You will always be remembered. You will have a special place among the choir of angels in heaven! Our deepest sympathy.
The Ganza Family!
Venus Ganza, MD.
July 9, 2010
Dear Josie and Angela,
Please accept my sincere and heartfelt sympathy for the passing of your "little" brother. I remember Frank fondly from our "green" days at D'Arcy McGee. He was a noteworthy teacher and a fast friend. Frank was always there with an easy smile and an interesting story.

God bless him and all his devoted family members.
Marisa Cassano
July 9, 2010
My prayers for you and your family that you will be comforted with the peace and love that God will provide in this time of sadness.
Mirella Maringola
July 9, 2010
I am saddened to hear of the passing of a great man. I remember Frank's great passion for music and how it brought him much joy. I am sure he will be remembered as a highly respected person for all who have had the honor of knowing him.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Roberta Tocci
July 9, 2010
Our deepest sympathies to the family of Captain Frank Merlo. He was highly regarded and will be sorely missed.
Vi & Dan Mann
July 9, 2010
The first day I began my military career, Frank was there. Over the years, so many memories! Playing in a Band is like being in a family. We have lost one of our own.

Sgt Lawrence Barley CD
Lawrence Barley
July 9, 2010
You will be greatly missed, Capt. Merlo. Rest in peace. Nulli Secundus.

MCpl Richardson
Candace Richardson
July 9, 2010
Frank embodied our Regimental Motto in everything he did. Nulli Secundus Frank, you truly were Second to None. You will be missed by all.
P.J. VanAuken
July 9, 2010
Frank brought joy to students and staff in the "York/Area 4 schools with his talent in music and his cheerful and positive attitude. He taught children to enjoy singing and was always proud of their performances at various school and community events. I fondly remember the Remembrance Day Service which he planned and conducted during the memorial masses attended by the students of D'Arcy McGee. School staffs looked forward to the Christmas season when Frank, with a group of other musicians from TCDSB (MSSB), would arrive to provide a moment of peace and joy with their carolling. Frank conducted many choirs in the TCDSB schools; he will now be conducting the choirs of angels in heaven. Frank was a colleague and a friend who made sure he kept in touch. I will miss you. My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Maria Cioppa
July 9, 2010
Captain Frank Merlo, CD
Daniel & Vi Mann
July 9, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with the family in your time of grief. Frank will be greatly missed by his colleagues in the music dept. of TCDSB.
Baya Arts
July 9, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Rose Cutrara
July 9, 2010
My heartfelt condolences Signora Merlo, Angela, Josie and family. Words cannot surpass the void that will be felt with the passing of Frank a kind, human, well loved friend. May God continue to remain by our side at these most sorrowful times and give us strength.
Love Enza Battaglia
enza battaglia
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