Obituary of Francis J. Merante

Francis J. Merante (Jerry) of Westvale passed away on June 15, 2017 at the age of 76. He was a devoted and loving husband, father of four, and grandfather of eleven. He was a 1960 graduate of Most Holy Rosary. He coached Rosary's Varsity CYO basketball team to a Championship. For nearly 50 years he worked as an award-winning salesman for Mohawk Coffee Company, Eagan Real Estate, Barnes-Hind and Wesley Jessen, where he sold contact lenses. Jerry was an active member of Holy Family Parish for over 50 years where he served as a member of the choir, a Eucharistic Minister, and a lector. He also volunteered at St. Camillus. He was predeceased by his parents: Francis and Charlotte and brothers: Robert and Paul. He is survived by his brothers: Terrance and Matthew and sisters: Kathleen, Mary, and Theresa. He is also survived by his wife of 50 years, Patricia (Kelly) Merante; son, Francis J. Merante, Jr. (Michelle) of Liverpool; daughter, Ellen (Merante) Faigle (R.C.) of Manlius; son, Edward Merante (Carolyn) of Camillus; and son, Christopher Merante (Rita) of Rochester. Jerry's grandson, Baby Vincent, will meet him at the gates of Heaven. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 4-7pm at the Edward J. Ryan Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Avenue. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Wednesday at 10am at Holy Family Church in Fairmount, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Holy Family Food Pantry, 127 Chapel Dr, Syracuse, NY 13219.