Helen Canion Merlino

Helen Canion Merlino, of Austin, Texas, devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, October 30, 2005. She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years John J. Merlino and infant daughter Susan René Merlino. Helen was born on September 3, 1921, in San Antonio, Texas, to Curtis and Henrietta Canion. She married John Merlino on September 4, 1943. The couple moved to Austin, Texas, in 1945. Helen was secretary and head bookkeeper for St. Ignatius Church for over 20 years. She considered the Holy Cross priests, staff and many fellow parishioners as her extended family. A shining example of family support and compassion, her love and understanding was the bond within her family. Helen will continue to bless her loving family with her prayers for her children; Mike Merlino (San Marcos), Mark Merlino (Elgin), Curtis Merlino (Southaven, MS), Teresa Merlino Nicknish (Spring), and their spouses; her eleven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Every one who knew Helen, loved her and she will be dearly missed. If you would like to send a charitable donation in lieu of flowers, please consider the St. Vincent de Paul Society, c/o St. Ignatius Church, 2309 Euclid Avenue, Austin, Texas 78704. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 7:00 pm on Friday, November 4, 2005, at Wilke-Clay-Fish Funeral Home. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 pm at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 126 W. Oltorf, Austin, Texas, with interment to follow at Assumption Cemetery. Memorials and guestbook online at wcfish.com