STETSON – Robert “Bob” Leslie Merrill, 69, passed away July 3, 2009, at his home, after a short illness. He was born Aug. 5, 1939, in Stetson, son of Truman and Julia (Annett) Merrill. Bob attended school at Corinna Union Academy and graduated in 1957. Bob worked alongside his father and was a partner in T.W. Merrill and Son; he then went on to manage O’Ames Co., Palmyra, for 24 years. Bob was involved in the American Legion, Newport, and went on to be a charter member of the Elks, Pittsfield. Next, he became very involved in the Masons and joined Anah Temple Shrine, Bangor, and served as president of Tri-County Shrine in 1993. Bob also served his country by being in the Air National Guard. Bob received his pilot’s license in 1968 and flew for many years. He served his community by being on the board of selectmen and planning board for the town of Stetson from 1981 to 2003. Bob built and raced many cars at Unity Raceway, won many races and made many friends along the way. He was also a member and past president of Sebasticook Snowmobile Club. Bob was an avid hunter and in later years began golfing, which he enjoyed at their Florida home in the winter months. Bob is survived by his wife, Phyllis of Stetson; a son, Kevin and daughter-in-law, Traci, of Corinth; a daughter, Shelly Campbell and son-in-law, Dennis, of Pittsfield; three grandsons, Ben and Joshua Merrill of Corinth and Brady Campbell of Pittsfield; one sister, Sandra Peters and brother-in-law, John, of Harpswell; two nephews, Chris and Greg Peters; and niece, Stephanie Peters. Also surviving are several cousins. Bob will be fondly remembered by a stepson, Scott Schissler of Newport; and by his wife’s children, Ellen Thurlow, David Marston, Debbie Marston and James Marston. Bob will also be lovingly remembered by several close friends from both Maine and Florida. His smile, laughter and big hugs will be missed by many. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, at Crosby & Neal, 117 Main St., Newport, where Masonic services will be held 7:30 p.m. conducted by the Meridian Splendor Masonic Lodge No. 49. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Ed Costain officiating. Burial will be at Clark’s Hill Cemetery, Stetson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Anah Shrine, P.O. Box 735, Bangor, ME 04402-0735, for the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. For an online guest register, go to www.CrosbyNeal.com.
ROBERT ‘BOB’ LESLIE MERRILL
