NEW YORK, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Renowned baritone and 30-year Metropolitan Opera veteran Robert Merrill has died of natural causes. He was 87.
Merrill's wife, Marion, told the New York Times the opera star died at home Saturday while watching the first game of the World Series.
Merrill made his Metropolitan debut as Germont in "La Traviata" Dec. 15, 1945, and celebrated his 500th performance there March 5, 1973. He remained on the Met roster until 1976.
He was born Moishe Millstein to Polish immigrant parents in Brooklyn June 4, 1917. He changed his name when he became a professional singer by the 1940s, when his career moved from singing at bar mitzvahs in the Catskills to radio, television and film. He also made occasional appearances in nightclubs and in Las Vegas.
His performing extended to singing the national anthem at Yankee Stadium where his recording was used for many years to open home games.
Merrill is survived by his wife, a son, a daughter and grandchildren, said family friend Barry Tucker.
