Alfonso David Merino, 92, of Decatur peacefully passed away on Wednesday, September 30, 2020. He was born in Yonkers, NY on June 26, 1928. He grew up in Spanish Harlem, NY before moving to Decatur, AL in 1958.

In his career as a mechanical draftsman, his work in the space industry began at Chrysler and retired from Boeing. He was involved with the Space Station and space continued to intrigue him throughout his life. After retirement, In his spare time, he was a Eucharistic Minister, worked with the Knights of Columbus, as well as the Cursillo Movement. He was also President of St. Ann's PTA. He was an avid reader, loved the Atlanta Braves, the Crimson Tide and pretty much any team his children supported.He served in the Marines during WW II.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. His sweet and kind nature endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A private family graveside service will be held Sunday, October 4, 2020. Alfonso was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Olga Merino. He is survived by five children and their spouses, Brenda O'Rourke (Jerry) of Slidell, LA; Steven Merino of Decatur, AL; Patricia Siepman (Kurt) of Chicago, IL; Michael Merino (Julia Hodges) of Washington, DC; Sean Merino (Paige) of Houston TX. Four grandchildren and their spouses, Cristina Sparkman of West Hollywood, CA; Brandon Sparkman, (Shelli) of Cypress, TX; Lauren Peebles of Destin, FL; Claiborne Saldarriaga (Juan) of Redondo Beach, CA. Four great-grandchildren, Preston Sparkman of Cypress, TX; Kylie Sparkman of Cypress, TX; Jude Sparkman of Cypress TX; and Ada Olivia Saldarriaga of Redondo Beach, CA.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to American Legion Post 15, Decatur AL