Arthur “Turi” Merino of Clifton, passed away June 19, 2019, in Buckeye with his family at his side. He was born Jan. 12, 1937, in Morenci, to parents Antonio Rodriguez Merino and Josefina Macias Merino; and siblings, Mike, Vera, Ramon, Tony, Bobby, Annie, Raul, Joe, Olga, and Irma.
Arthur attended the schools in Morenci and later graduated from Morenci High School. After graduation, he began working for Phelps Dodge Mining and later became a journeyman welder. Arthur Married his one true love, Olivia Gonzalez, on March 7, 1959. The young couple made their home in Clifton, where they were joined by their four children; Arturo Jr., Daniel, Sherry, and Rhonda.
Arthur loved to go hunting and fishing. He really enjoyed being outdoors in the mountains and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his children, Arthur G. Merino, Jr. (Diana), Daniel Merino, Sherry Wilson (James), and Rhonda Bojorquez (Ernesto); 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Arthur is preceded in death by his parents, Antonio and Josefina Merino; and siblings, Annie Merino Tracy, Mike Merino, Sr., Tony Merino, Sr., and Irma Merino Gardner.
A viewing will be held Friday, June 28, at 8 a.m. in the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Morenci, with a Rosary being recited at 9 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, also in Morenci.
Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
