Charles R. "Charlie" Melaragni

Charlie Melaragni, son of Charles and Charlotte Melaragni, husband to Lena, and father to Geanine, Lena Lyn, and Charles has passed away at the age of 74. On June 11 th , 2023, his family lost their heart, a natural optimist and a mentor to those with the good fortune to know him. His time with us ended too soon, but there is so much wisdom and encouragement we can still draw from his life, one filled with love and encouragement.

If you asked Charlie about his life, he might tell you about growing up in South Philly where he met the love of his life, Lena Kromko, who he pledged himself to at the altar of Holy Cross Church on the first of November in 1969. He would speak with joy and hard-won authority about the challenges of raising children, and welcoming grandchildren, and great grandchildren into his growing family. He might even offer up sage business advice if you ask, but he was far more likely to tell you about his true love, family.

In retirement, he and Lena enjoyed the peace of their mountain home in Briar Creek, and frequent travel to see their beloved family. Their weekends were spent with celebrated family milestones, and trips to Atlantic City with friends to enjoy the amenities and each other, filling their nights with dancing and love. At home is where he felt most at rest, watching the seasons pass and appreciating every detail he and his love had surrounded themselves with. Cool fresh air, a blanket of fresh snow, and the quiet of the mountains… Charlie saw it for what it was, a miracle of nature to be beheld with wonder and gratitude.

Charlie himself was a miracle of nature, someone his friends and loved ones could behold with wonder and gratitude. The magic was not on the mountain, it was with the man who could see the world for what it was, and intuitively understood how to bring that peace of mind and love to those around him.

Charlie was the beloved husband of Lena M. (née Kromko) Melaragni; the loving father of Geanine Traband (Alan Zufall), Lena Lyn McMenamin (Brian “Mickey”), and Charles G. Melaragni (Kristen Dannaker). He was the proud grandfather of Ashley Shotyk (Mike), Brian McMenamin, Brianna McMenamin (Brandon Holz),  Mikayla Traband, and Silas Melaragni, and the great-grandfather of Blake, Brynn, Briella, Bristol, Bentley, and Blythe Shotyk. He was the dear brother of Charmaine Troccoli (the late Rudy), Robert Melaragni (Penny), David Melaragni (The late Roe), Cynthia Lynch (Joseph), and Scott Melaragni (Patty). He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Donna Roby (Larry), niece, Georgina O’Hara (Mike), as well as his many loving nieces and nephews. Charlie was predeceased by his parents, as well as his father and mother-in-law, George and Louise Kromko.

For those he left behind, we know he wished us health, happiness, and success. He was so proud of his loved ones, and he often reminded us that time moves forward, and not to dwell on the past. We can do that with the comfort of knowing that he is always present, whether in spirit or through the indelible mark he left on all with whom he shared the joy of life.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing, Tuesday, June 20, 2023, 9:30 – 10:20 AM at Holy Cross Church, 651 E. Springfield Road, Springfield, PA 19064, followed by his Funeral Mass, 10:30 AM. Interment SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

 In lieu of flowers, you are welcomed to make monetary contributions.  All monetary donations to be made through the family.