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Obituaries

Licio "Lee" Merlo

September 16, 1932 - August 23, 2025

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Obituary For Licio "Lee" Merlo

With love and sadness, we announce the passing of our Father and Papa Licio (Lee) Merlo at the age of 92 on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Grande Prairie, Alberta.

Born in Zompicchia, Italy, on September 16, 1932, to Pietro and Marianna Merlo, the youngest of 4 brothers. Lee embarked on his Canadian journey at the age of 19. At 22, he married his love, Audrey, and they were married for 63 years before Audrey's passing in 2019.

In 1964, Lee put his skills as a tradesman to use in building Lee's Sheet Metal (LSM), a company he was deeply proud of. Beyond his business endeavors, he gave generously to his community, serving as president of both the Grande Prairie Golf and Country Club and the Grande Prairie Curling Club. He was later honoured with lifetime memberships in both organizations.

Lee was a remarkable craftsman and inventor, creating everything from riverboats, houses, to airplanes. In his early 60s, he discovered a passion for flying, built his handcrafted Cozy IV aircraft, and cherished the lifelong friendships that came with it.

Those who knew Lee will remember his strong Italian spirit, quick wit, and endless resourcefulness.

Lee's greatest pride was his family. He will be lovingly remembered by his children LeeAnn Kinderwater, Pete Merlo (Lori), Laura MacLean (Rob), and Lena Buechner (Gord); his 14 grandchildren; and his 28 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Audrey; parents Pietro and Marianna; sister Lena; and brothers Beppi, Aldo, and Lino.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care and support provided by Jeremy Rogg, RN, Dr. Prada, Dr. Leal, and the staff at Emerald Gardens.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph's Catholic Church (10404 102 St), Grande Prairie, on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:00 am, followed by interment at the Grande Prairie Cemetery (84th Ave & 112th St.) and a luncheon at the Grande Prairie Golf and Country Club (711040 Resources Rd).

A livestream link will be available 10 minutes prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Emerald Gardens Recreation in memory of Licio (Lee) Merlo. E-transfers can be emailed to emerald.gardens.recreation@outlook.com. Email subject line: Lee Merlo. No password required. Emerald Gardens questions or inquiries to: Jessica Fowler – 587-202-5459.

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Condolences

  • August 27, 2025

    Paul and Myrna Lemay

    Lee and Audrey were long time friends and we shared many meals and visits with them. We had the joy of celebrating many numerous celebrations with a number of mutual friends (which Audrey dubbed "the gang"), whether it was birthdays, anniversaries, New Years' Eve or just a casual get together. Although we were not golfers or curlers, we enjoyed hearing the stories of that super "shot", whichever the game!! Lee was certainly very passionate about both sports. He will be missed. May he rest in peace! Paul and Myrna Lemay

  • August 26, 2025

    Audrey Curran

    I am sad to hear of Lee's passing. I thought he was a true gentleman, always kind and friendly. My condolences to your family.

  • August 26, 2025

    Christina

    As one of the Healthcare Aides at Emerald Gardens, I'd like to express heartfelt condolences to all of Lee's family. Lee was a very special person in our small community. I will miss hearing him sing in Italian and the stories he would tell of his family. All of us at Emerald Gardens will truly miss him.

  • August 26, 2025

    Al Romanchuk

    I came to know Lee when I first arrived in GP in 1965. He was a kind man, a gentleman and a damn good golfer. He supported the 3 GP Pro Am tournaments and always had a warm smile on his handsome face. He was a community builder, a doer, an earner and I admire all of his good qualities. Al Romanchuk, Edmonton

  • August 26, 2025

    Sharon ,Richard Annis and families

    Sending positive thoughts and prayers to the Merlo family.We have fond memories of sharing a meal ,pared with vino ,lots of laughter and. special people , in Mesa Arizona , May you Rest in Peace Lee.We have lost a beautiful soul!

  • August 26, 2025

    Barbara Campbell (McKie)

    My condolences on your loss. I have many memories of your Dad from early days of growing up on the crescent. He was always friendly & welcoming with a warm smile. May he rest in peace.

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