Meet Kim Merlino

    I was born on July 1, 1947, the great granddaughter and granddaughter of Lutheran ministers, daughter of Waldemar and Ruth Sanders. I was raised in Western Pennsylvania. I met and married James Merlino on February 8, 1969. Jim was in the Air Force and stationed at Clinton Sherman Air Force Base. We drove to Elk City, Oklahoma near the base. I worked in a dress shop. After 11 months, Jim got orders to go to Vietnam. He left in March 1970. Many, many prayers were said that he would come home safely. Our prayers were answered when he returned in March 1971.
    We have two sons, Kevin, born June 5, 1981, and Michael born September 13, 1984. Jim worked as an electrician for the Commonwealth of Pa. at State hospitals in Western PA and was promoted to Maintenance  Supervisor.  He was transferred to the Department of Welfare in Harrisburg in February 1989, as Facilities Maintenance Manager. We moved to Carlisle, PA. We were members of St. Stephens Lutheran Church, New Kingstown, for over 25 years. I worked at Cumberland Valley High School in the cafeteria and then as a study hall monitor for a total of 19 years. 
    My son, Kevin, owns a landscaping business. He is married to Melissa and they have three children, Aimee, 16; Britney, 12; and Bentley, 6. Michael is married to Rene. They have three children, Reagan Mae, 16; Conner, 13; and Zoey,18, who is engaged to Nick. They have a son, Hudson, born July 9, 2026.
    Jim passed on January 4, 2023. I sold the house and moved to Duncannon to live with my son, Kevin, and his family.
    Michael, who lives in Blandburg, PA, and works at Dan Vaughn Designs in State College, told me to check out Christ Lutheran Church (CLC) and the Senior Center in Duncannon, which is what I have done. 
    I enjoy going to the Senior Center to play Bingo and for the interactions with others. I also enjoy attending CLC functions and after church going to lunch with friends. During the sermon, I take notes which helps me to concentrate on what is being said.
    Pastor and everyone at CLC have made me feel very welcomed and I thank you.