MELVIN A. ARIA

ARIA MELVIN A. Son of the late Austin and Ada Aria (nee Flem), passed away peacefully on July 25, 2021, at the age of 83 years old in Phila., PA. Survived by his beloved wife, Maria (nee Zak), of 49 years; loving father of Zachary Aria (Kristyn) and Diana Aria (Ryan); devoted grandfather to Austin and Wesley Aria and Adalin Aria Brogan. Melvin was a proud graduate of Northeast High School where he played football. He continued his love for the sport at Millersville University. Following school, Melvin worked as a Mortgage Broker. Over the years he successfully formed his own mortgage company, became the Vice President of Central Mortgage Company, and then went on to work for Boulevard Mortgage Company. After retiring, he pursued his avocation of coaching softball at Merion Mercy Academy and basketball for Episcopal Academy and Waldron Mercy Academy and various tournament teams. He also refereed basketball and was a passionate sports fan of collegiate basketball, football and softball. When he was not involved with sports, Melvin would take care of his Koi pond and orchids. He was an avid miniature figure collector; he not only manufactured his own line of figures and had his own business, MA Toy Soldiers, but also was an importer and supplier to over 23 stores across the U.S. and Europe. Melvin was an active member of the Miniature Figure Collectors of America. Relatives and friends are invited to a Visitation on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 9 A.M. at BURNS FUNERAL HOME, 9708 Frankford Ave., Phila., PA 19114. Interment will be held at Hillside Cemetery in Roslyn. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Leukemia Research Foundation, 191 Waukegan Rd, Ste 105, Northfield, IL 60093-2744. www.burnsfuneralhome.com