Harry A. Merlo, for whom Merlo field is named, passed away on Monday, Oct. 24 at the age of 91.
Merlo, who served as the chief executive officer of Louisiana-Pacific from 1973-1995 donated millions of dollars to the University of Portland throughout his life and was key in bringing the Louisiana-Pacific Tennis Center to campus.
Merlo not only played a role in UP sports, but also sports in the city of Portland as a whole. He bought the original Portland Timbers franchise when they were a part of the North American Soccer League and he was integral in bringing the Davis Cup, known as the World Cup of tennis, to the city.
He is survived by his wife, Flo Newton-Merlo, son Harry Merlo Jr., and his two grandsons and two stepchildren.
There will be a memorial service held in Merlo’s honor on Saturday, November 19 at 3 p.m in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher.
