Hanno M. Merlin, a long-time resident of Waverly Heights in Gladwyne, passed away on November 13, 2024 at the age of 91. He was born in the picturesque town of Grabs, Switzerland on April 12, 1933, and grew up in Schaan, Liechtenstein. He went to university in Zurich, Switzerland, where he achieved a PhD in Chemical Engineering from ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology). It was in Zurich where Hanno met Lotti Hoppeler. They became engaged in 1957 and were married in 1959.
In 1961 Hanno sailed aboard the SS United States bound for new opportunity in America. He worked for 15 years in New Jersey and Illinois in the pharmaceutical industry before closing out his career with over two decades of service at Wyeth International in Radnor, PA.
Beyond his professional success, Hanno loved tennis and golf, both of which he enjoyed for many years, first as a member at Martin's Dam Tennis & Swim Club and later as a member at Aronimink Golf Club. He was a patron of the Philadelphia Orchestra, was a voracious reader, and loved to travel. He especially enjoyed cruises, which allowed him and Lotti to see the world.
More than anything, Hanno was devoted to Lotti and their children. He is survived by his daughter, Karin Taney (married to Jim and residing in Fleetwood, PA), and his son, Marc Merlin (residing in Paoli, PA), along with Marc's children, Sydney and Eric. Hanno is also survived by his sister, Christa Haenni, residing in Switzerland.
Hanno is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lotti Merlin. They were married for 54 years at the time of her death. He is also survived by the legacy of his late parents, Helmuth and Reinfriede Merlin, and his late brother, Peter Merlin.
Throughout his life, Hanno was known not only for his professional accomplishments but for his warmth, generosity, sense of humor, and his ever-present Swiss German accent. He leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Services and Interment are private.
Visits: 245
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors