Merlyn Louis Uhlenberg

Sep 16, 1929 - Nov 4, 2015

Merlyn Uhlenberg passed away peacefully on November 4, 2015 in Alameda, CA at the age of 86. He was the son of the late Louis and Jessie Wright Uhlenberg. Merlyn spent his youth in the family home in Redwood City, CA. Following military service, Merlyn was employed by the County of San Mateo and finally as a systems analyst with Fireman’s Fund in Novato, CA until he retired in 1991.

Merlyn is survived by his sister Avis Kazanjian of Aliso Viejo; his nieces Karen Kelly (Bill), Carla Colacito (Mike) and Denise Landon (Chuck) and their families; the cherished Miss Sadie, the cat and Rich Knowles, his devoted partner of over forty years. Merlyn was blessed with a magnificent circle of friends who appreciated his smile and quiet wit.

Merlyn was an avid reader and a classical music and opera aficionado. After his retirement, along with delivering meals for Project Open Hand, he resumed piano lessons last taken in his youth and spent many hours practicing at his coveted Kawai Grand. He also resumed his clarinet studies proudly marching with the Martinez Community Band. Music, theater and a profound affection for animals were among the highlights of his life. Merlyn and Rich were fortunate to travel, often times with friends, to the South Pacific, several Caribbean Islands on the fun Windjammer Ships, so many trips to Hawaii and Europe the count cannot be remembered, South America, Antarctica, Alaska and their trip of a lifetime, a Kenya safari.

Rich would like to sincerely thank Golden Age Senior Living caregivers Paul, Patricia and Maricel for their extraordinary care and compassion and Merlyn’s niece Carla Colacito for her loving help in this journey of care. “Enjoy your new life my little guy.”

A Celebration of Merlyn’s Life will be held at a later date.