William A. Merrill Print E-mail

 

William A. Merrill

Former part-time Park Ranger, National Park Service;

William A.  Merrill, 76, a lifelong resident of the City, passed away peacefully Sunday morning March 26, 2017, at the Westford House.

He was the beloved husband of Katherine (Carey) Merrill with whom he recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary on November 20th 2016.  

Born in Lowell, Massachusetts on Nov. 28, 1940, a son of the late Allen J. and Lillian (Seymour) Merrill, he was a communicant of St. Rita Church.

Bill attended Lowell schools and was a graduate of Lowell High School in the Class of 1958. He went on to receive his BS and Masters in Education from Salem University. In addition, he received a Certificate of Advanced Education (CAGS) from Boston University in 1971.

He was employed at Lowell High School for 40 years as a history teacher and later a guidance counselor.  In the early years of the Lowell National Historic Park he worked seasonally as a tour guide – a job he thoroughly enjoyed.

Bill held membership in several Church, civic and educational organizations.  Prior to his illness, he served on the Board of Directors of the Lowell Collegiate Charter School.

Besides wife Katherine, he is survived by his sons Scott and his wife Jennifer (King) Merrill and Jonathan Merrill; his grandchildren Kaileigh, Connor and Rebecca Merrill.  He also leaves several cousins and many in-laws from his wife’s family.

The family would like to thank Dr. Pickul and all the staff of Westford House for their caring and support during this difficult time.

Friends may call at the O’DONNELL FUNERAL HOME 276 PAWTUCKET ST. at Fletcher from 3 to 7 P.M. Tuesday.  Funeral Mass to be celebrated Wednesday morning at ST. RITA CHURCH at 10 o’clock followed by burial in St. Mary Cemetery. E-condolences/directions at odonnellfuneralhome.com. Those wishing may make remembrances in his memory to the Monastery of St. Clare, 555 River Road, Andover, MA  01886 or to St. Vincent de Paul Society, c/o St. Rita’s Parish 158 Mammoth Road, Lowell, MA 01854. Arrangements by Funeral Director James F. O’Donnell, Jr. (978) 458-8768.

Condolences (7)
  • William Merrill  - Our Condolences
    Dear Kay, I just read in the September edition of Mass Retirees newsletter that Bill had passed. We are very sorry for your loss. Bill and I were very good friends at Salem, and I will always remember the great times we had during our four years there. He was a great guy. Both my wife and I enjoyed seeing and talking with you and Bill at the 50th reunion breakfast. Again, our sincere condolences to you and your boys. Paul Murphy
  • Jonathan J Liebowitz  - My sympathies
    Dear Kay and family, My condolences on your loss. I knew Bill only a little, but I will always remember you and Jonathan fondly. With all my best wishes, Jonathan
  • Peter and Helen Veneto  - William Merrill
    Dear Kay and Family, Just heard the news that Bill is with his heavenly Father -- thinking about you at this sad time but knowing that he is at peace. We had so many good times together. Sending you our sympathy and love -- Helen and Peter
  • Joan Varoski
    Sorry to hear Nill has passed. Ypu and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Joan vatoski
  • Tom and Lynn Laviano  - Our deepest condolences
    Kay and family We are so sorry to hear of Bills passing. Lynn and I are flying back from our Florida winter home but will not be back until late Wednesday. We hope to see you Kay this summer. Tom
  • Pat Lyons  - So sorry for your loss
    Dear Kay and family, It is with a very heavy heart we extend our deepest sympathy to you, the boys and family. We have shared so much over so many years and have so many great memories. May those fond memories of yesterday help in some way, to heal the hurt of today. With Love, John, Patty and Family
  • Mary Dumont
    Dearest Kay and family - May your hearts be consoled by the precious memories of the huge ways in which Bill touched the lives of his family, friends and co-workers. I am praying for all of you, that you find great solace in the comfort of our Beloved Lord during this very difficult time. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. In His most merciful love, Mary
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