Roger W. Merrill

Roger W. Merrill, age 79 of Centerville, Ohio, formerly Little Switzerland, North Carolina, passed away Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Miami Valley Hospital South in Dayton, Ohio. He was born September 2, 1944 in Painesville, Ohio, the son of the late Donald and Margaret Merrill.

Following graduation from Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio, Roger was employed with Diamond Shamrock Gas and Oil (Valero) for 30 years until his retirement in 1997. During his time there, he was a leader in forming Hand to Hand, a professional organization whose goal was to promote interaction between small businesses and large corporations. As a young man, he was Master of Counselor of DeMoley and went on to join the Mason's at Temple Lodge #28 in Painesville, Ohio. Roger was an active member of the Spruce Pine First Presbyterian Church, and also volunteered for the Shepherd's Staff in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, where he was instrumental in the success of the Empty Bowls Dinner. He was also a trustee for 10 years with the Alpine Mountain HOA in Little Switzerland, North Carolina. Roger was a talented woodworker, and built tables, benches, gazebos, and rocking chairs over the years. He'll be remembered for his love of Texas A&M sports, but most importantly, his love for his family.

Roger is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marilyn; daughter, Wendy (Kevin) Judd; Son, Mark (Jennifer) Merrill; grandchildren, Garrett, Cooper, Finn and Brooks Judd, Anelise and Tristan Merrill; sister, Linda (Dick) Kish of Richmond, Virginia; as well as numerous cousins, extended relatives, and friends.

Roger's wishes were to be cremated and his family will scatter his remains on Mount Mitchell in North Carolina at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Roger's memory to Spruce Pine First Presbyterian Church (970 Greenwood Rd, PO Box 764, Spruce Pine, NC 28777).

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