Obituary of William Merrick
William Merrick, age 87, of Geneseo, passed away on September 26, 2024, at home with family at his side. Bill did not fight his cancer, he showed it who was boss, surpassing his diagnosis by more than double the years expected. He was born to James W. and Anna Zuris Merrick on February 19, 1937, in Leavittsburgh, Ohio. Bill was sorrowfully predeceased in 2007 by his beloved wife of 49 years, Dona Colburn Merrick. Dona and Bill married on November 26, 1960 in Nunda, NY and were such sweethearts that we take comfort that they are finally reunited. They settled in the Groveland Hill area of Geneseo, New York where they raised their family. Bill was a United States Air Force Veteran and retired from Kodak, where he was a high voltage electrician known affectionately as "Uncle Bill" by those who had the privilege of being an apprentice under him.
Bill was a true family man, he worked hard to take care of his family, and ensured that his kids had a simple, loving, and wonderful childhood. His life's high point was the ability to hunt and fish with his brother and friends freely for decades and sharing that passion with his son, nephew, and grandsons over the years. Post hunting stories at the pavilion on the Merrick property was a favorite pastime for the men of the family, and a reason to retreat to the house for a cocktail for the ladies.
Bill is predeceased by his wife Dona, brother, James and his wife Lois, son in law, Robert Loomis and grandson, Branden Merrick and his wife Carrie, and a hell of a lot of deer, fish, and small game.
Surviving Bill are his children; Roxanne (Bret Oliphant) Loomis, Todd (Camille) Merrick, and Glynda (Chuck Wolcott) Valentine, grandsons, Bowen (Rachel) Loomis, Bret (Chantel Ellis) Loomis, Kevin Merrick, Cory (Michayla Salatel) Valentine and Jason Valentine, great grandchildren, Hadley Merrick-Coyne, Aiden and Blakely Loomis and Lincoln Merrick. Survivors also include a sister in law, Sharon Colburn, son in law Brad Valentine, nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors throughout the community.
At Bill's request, there will be no prior visitation, private service for the family will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Groveland. Memorials in Bill's memory are gratefully encouraged to Livingston County Hospice, 2 Murray Hill Dr. in Mt. Morris, NY, whose staff has once again provided our family with incredible care and compassion.