Stephen P. Merlo

Oh how I miss reading Steve's weekly outdoor column in our newspaper. He had a gift for story telling that made you feel you were right there on the water ways, mountains and fields enveloped by nature and all of its wonders. I didn't know Steve but I still think of him as "my friend". God Bless !!

Coming up on 5 years and though the pain has softened with time it´s still very much there as we think of you always BUT esp when Don catches NO fish lol he discovered a new fishing spot (thank you) he can´t wait to teach Our New Granddaughter all your tricks you left us with We love you Papa Steve and MISS you so Darn much!! Till we all reunite save us a fishing chair next to you xo The W´s

Im sorry for your loss. I knew him as fisherman Steve;). Saw him fishing everywhere. Brought a tear to my eye reading this. Godbless

Hi There Dad .. coming up on your anniversary and so many changes in our lives without you these last 2 years . Thank You for looking over us always and sending lil reminders that we cherish within our hearts ♥Forever!! The pain has not lessened but we've learned to live with it as we hear stories from others how you touched their lives with your wisdom and Sense of humor .. We Love and Miss you Papa Steve

As a young man I fished against Steve for many years with my fishing partners Dick Trask and Scott Gantz. Like Dick, Steve was a pioneer of finese fishing. His hand poured worms were legendary! He was always sitting in the bow of his Ranger slowly working his baits and catching fish! I'm sure Steve is up in heaven with his old buddies doing what he loved!

Candy, this is Ron fussy and I was totally shocked that Steve had passed I didn't read about it until late Monday so I was unable to attend services and pay my last respects we had many conversations and he will be missed by all his friends . My deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family . Also forgot to mention that we shared many Vietnam stories that I am a Vietnam veteran as well .

It has been years since I have fished and have never hunted, but I looked forward to reading Steve's column every week. He was such a good storyteller. I especially enjoyed his stories about growing up. The Friday paper just won't be the same. Comfort and peace to the family.

I met Steve when I was a freshman at Shafter High School. He was a senior, and I will always remember how kind he was to me. I lost track of so many friends when I moved from Shafter, but was glad to see Steve had a Facebook page so I could catch up on what he had been doing. I'm not surprised to see that Steve made many life-long friends, touched many lives, never forgot those who went before him, and had a loving family. I'm sure he made many wonderful memories wherever he went. My...

I don't fish or hunt but enjoyed reading all your wonderfully written columns. I so appreciated the enthusiasm and genuineness I felt in your writing. Thanks for sharing them with all of us. Rest in peace and may your family find comfort.