Jeannine Angelina Merlino's Obituary
Jeannine Angelina Merlino (Maggiora) passed away April 24, 2026 in Castro Valley, California. She was born January 14, 1929, to Luigi and Louisa Maggiora, in Oakland, California. Jeannine is predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Richard Merlino, and her four siblings: Cyna, Neli, Fred, and Della. She is cherished by her nieces and nephews: Pat, Levin, Mary Bayles, Betty Huppert, Diane Schroeder, Rym Maggiora, and Cooper Maggiora.
A graduate of Oakland High (1947) and Stanford University (1951), Jeannine enjoyed a lengthy career at H.C. Capwell Co., primarily as their Active Sportswear Buyer, before retiring in 1978. She was actually a pioneer for women wearing pants to work! A longtime volunteer for Children’s Hospital Oakland, retirement also afforded Jeannine more time to practice her artistic side, creating beautiful craft items for the hospital fundraisers. Jeannine’s talents also benefited Rich’s family’s Alita Pasta factory business, especially during the gourmet flavored pasta craze. She designed hand-labeled bags, complete with adding her own recipes to the bags.
Marriage came several years after college, via an introduction by a friend and a coworker. A few dates eventually led to a picnic atop Mt. Tam where Rich popped the question with, “You have to marry me! But we have to wait a year!” Jeannine being Jeannine responded, “No! We’ll get married now!” and promptly set the date. They married May 17, 1959, in Oakland.
Jeannine and Rich enjoyed entertaining in the dream home they built in 1971 in Castro Valley, where they hosted many lively family gatherings through the years. She also enjoyed traveling: Italy, Cuba, Japan, Mexico, as well as Rich’s 13th Armored Division Reunions.
After Rich’s passing in 2019, Jeannine moved to nearby Baywood Court, where she continued to enjoy an active and social life. Her resilient spirit and devotion to diet and exercise continues to inspire all who had the pleasure of knowing her. 97 years well spent!
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