Gift for illustration, avid traveler and dedicated Boston sports fan
WAKEFIELD — Anthony R. Merlino, age 38, passed away unexpectedly on October 4.
Born in Boston, Anthony was the beloved son of Anna and Richard Merlino. He was raised in Wakefield where he spent his formative years before embarking on life’s journey to Central Florida, North Dallas area, TX and ultimately returning to his roots in Boston.
A proud alumnus of Wakefield High School, class of 2004, Anthony was a passionate and driven individual. He played varsity football for the Wakefield Warriors, earned a 1st degree black belt in kempo karate and excelled in wrestling and boxing. A man of many talents, Anthony also possessed a hidden gift for illustration, a talent he rarely spoke of or displayed to others.
Anthony went on to earn his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Central Florida in 2011 and later his MBA from Southern New Hampshire University in 2014. During his college years, he and his brother co-founded a successful Kickstarter campaign which launched their careers in the gaming industry.
He began his professional career at Boss Fight Entertainment (Netflix) where he thrived as a Game Development Product Manager and Owner. His business acumen and leadership led to the success of popular titles such as Dungeon Boss, My Vegas Bingo, Dungeon Boss Respawned, Netflix Stories: Love is Blind, Money Heist Ultimate Choice and Squid Games: Unleashed. Eventually, Anthony followed another passion, real estate, co-founding Realty Network alongside his family.
Anthony’s love for his family was boundless. A true gentleman, his kindness and generosity were felt by all who knew him. He gave selflessly, volunteering to support veterans and regularly donating blood to the Red Cross. Beyond his professional achievements, Anthony was a dedicated sports fan, cheering on his favorite Boston teams. He was also an avid traveler, touching hearts across the globe from Alaska, Africa, Colombia, Europe, Hawaii, Japan, Key West, Mexico and more.
His family will miss him terribly, a sweet young man taken from life far too early.
Anthony leaves behind a legacy of love and generosity. He will be profoundly missed by his parents Anna (McCauley) and Richard Merlino; his brother and best friend Christopher Merlino; and his grandparents Elizabeth “Betty” and Carmen Merlino. He also leaves his Aunt Denise Merlino Felock, Uncle John Felock, many other family members and countless friends whom he considered family.
Relatives and friends are invited to a funeral Mass on Friday, October 25 at 11 a.m. at Incarnation Church, 429 Upham St., Melrose. Casual and sports attire are welcome for the Mass. Burial will take place privately at a later date at Winthrop Cemetery, Buchanan St. and Cross St., Winthrop.
In lieu of flowers, please show an act of kindness to a stranger or someone special in your life or choose a charity of choice. Please leave a message or a special memory for the family on Anthony’s Tribute wall on his obituary. Visit gatelyfh.com.
The family would love nothing more than to honor his memory by celebrating the beautiful moments he shared with all of us. Though he is gone, his kindness and love remain with us always. God bless.
