Anthony Joseph Merlo, 81, passed away on August 30, 2026. Tony, as he was affectionately known by all who knew him, was born in Kansas City, MO, on June 20, 1945. He was preceded in death by his parents and his identical twin, Eugene Merlo.
He is survived by his brother, Joseph Merlo, companion, Bettie Harris, four children, Francine (Corey) Taylor, Anthony (Amy) Merlo, Jr., Michele (Rudy) Maki and Matthew Merlo. He had two grandchildren, Lauren Taylor and Mason Maki, nieces and nephews.
Tony began his career as a hair stylist at a very young age. His father died when he and Eugene were still in their teens. Their older brother “Joe”, concerned about their future without a father, decided to send them to barber college. In Tony’s words, “that’s how it all started for me”. He opened his first men’s hairstyling shop in 1965 in the Board of Trade Building where he and his brother worked side-by-side. In 1967, Tony led the team from Missouri, placing second in the USA Championship for Men’s Hairstyling. During this timeframe, Tony had to take a break as he was called to serve as a member of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War.
The shop went unisex in 1979, expanding his clientele further. What eventually became Merlo’s Hair Design had developed a reputation for quality hairstyling and hair replacements as well. Tony was consistently recognized as the Best Barber in the area by several local publications, including the Overland Park Squire, while also winning multiple trophies for accomplishments in his field. He prided himself on having worked with three generations of clientele, many of whom became lifelong friends.
As well as having a fulfilling career, Tony was devoted to spending time with his family. In his free time, he enjoyed watching movies with his children, grilling in the backyard and bowling with his friends in the B’nai B’rith League, but his first passion was golf. He was a member of Blue Hills Country Club for many years and as far as we know, he never missed watching a single US Open or Masters tournament.
Tony never knew a stranger and will be remembered for his warm and engaging personality. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral service will be held on Monday, September 14 at 2:00 pm at the Johnson County Memorial Chapel, 11200 Metcalf Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.