Jose

Merla

Jose Merla, 78 years old, passed away peacefully at his home in Harlingen, TX on August 24, 2022, following a brief battle with cancer. He was born on August 15th, 1944, in San Luis Potosí, MX.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Olga Merla, with whom he celebrated 58 years of marriage, his grandparents Felipe and Maria Merla, siblings Ofelia and Lupita Ibanez, Estanislao Merla, and Maggie Puente.

He is survived by his beautiful mother, Socorro Ibanez, and children Joe Merla Jr. (Melanie), Annette (Ruben) Garza, Tracy (Shon) Shaefer, Belinda (Carlos) Baca, Maryann Garza, Pamela Merla, David Merla, Jeanette (Donny) Mazuera, siblings Olivia (Rey) Rios, Mary (Rudy) Saenz, Cayetano Ybanez, Angie Rivera, Lucy (Robert) Sanchez, Cleto (Janie) Ibanez, Janie (Ernie) Urbina, Gracie Villareal, along with 15 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jose was blessed with a large and loving family. He was a strong, respected, and selfless man. His generosity was unsurpassed as he took so much pride in helping others. He was the best son, husband, father, brother, and friend. He had a heart of gold and made such a huge impact on all the lives he touched. He worked hard his entire life. He worked as crew leader for Paul Molyet in Tiffin, OH. He also spent years working as a Supervisor for Big Tex, Fruit of the Loom and Bert Ogden. The magnitude of his loss will be felt by many. He had a life well lived and loved.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 28, 2022, from 10:00 am until 9:00 p.m. with a Holy Rosary to begin at 5:00 pm followed by a prayer service at 7:00 pm at Trinity Funeral Chapel of the Holy Spirit.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday, August 29, 2022, at 10:00 am at Trinity Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at Restlawn Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home, 1002 East Harrison Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550. www.trinityfunerals.com