Diva Merlo

DIVA MERLO A funeral mass will be held for Diva Martha Merlo, 90 of Chico, on Thursday, June 13, 2013, at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Diva passed away on Friday, June 7, 2013, in Chico. She was born on February 13, 1923, in Chico to Azelio and Zaira Cinquini. Diva graduated from Chico High School in 1941. In 1942 she married Enrico Merlo. They lived in Stirling City for a few years before they moved to Chico and bought property in 1945. Together, they farmed almonds for more than 50 years. As a young girl, Diva loved to swim in the creek on hot days. In later years, she became an active member of the Italian Federation and the Notre Dame Guild. She was passionate about her family, cooking, and her garden. Diva would spend several days before holidays and special occasions preparing dozens of homemade ravioli to serve her family. Those gatherings are treasured family memories. She is survived by her four children and their spouses: Nancy and Jim Dias, Deanna Rowe, Larry and Loya Merlo, and Mark and Sandy Merlo; seven grandchildren, Michael, Linda, David, Rocque, Joe, Gary, and Jenny; 13 great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Marie Cinquini, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Diva was preceded in death by her husband, Enrico Merlo, in 2002. A viewing will be held at the Brusie Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 12, 2013, from 5 - 7 p.m. A Vigil service will begin at 7 p.m. Donations may be made to the St. John's Catholic Church maintenance fund or the Alzheimer's Association in care of the funeral home.