Paul S. Merrill

Waterloo: Paul passed away peacefully on September 8th, and was reunited with Ruth, his loving wife and partner of 71 years who predeceased him in December 2020. Guided by principles of integrity, hard-work, and self-reliance, they were a formidable team, and role models on how to achieve a long and successful marriage. He is survived by sons Douglas Merrill (Debra Martin) and John Merrill (Cinda), and by daughters Paula Schmitt (William) and Judy McCoy (John). He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.
Born in Merrill, NY on January 23, 1930, he moved with his family to East Rochester at the age of 8. He started working at Ontario Drill Works when he was 16 after the death of his mother, and remained with the company until 1963. He learned the mason trade from his uncle and became an independent mason contractor specializing in residential construction. He earned a well-deserved reputation for the quality of his skill and workmanship. Later in life, he and Ruth became caretakers of the properties at Punky Hollow Farms in Wayland, NY.
He was a great storyteller, and enjoyed entertaining his family with tales about life at the homestead which is deep in the Adirondack mountains. He was also a man of Christian faith who fashioned his life in accordance with its teachings. He was a honest and modest man. The family is grateful for the care he received by the dedicated and compassionate staff of the Huntington Living Center during the last three years of his life. A private service has been held with the family.