Erwin L. Merrill Sr.

PORTLAND -- Erwin L. Merrill Sr., 70, of Rt. 2, Rumford, a longtime resident of Austin Street in Westbrook, died on January 31, 2011 at the Maine Medical Center following a brief illness.

He was born in Dixfield, a son of Claude and Gertrude (Welch) Merrill. Erwin was educated in Mexico schools.

He was employed for many years in the construction industry and retired from Coca Cola after 13 years of service.

Erwin was an avid NASCAR racing fan. He enjoyed working in his yard and walking his beloved dog “Ginger.”

Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Anita (Breault) Merrill of Rumford; five children, Erwin L. Merrill, Jr. and wife, Carol of Westbrook, Gary P. Merrill and wife, Pauline of Westbrook, Glenn L. Merrill of Windham, Jeffrey D. Merrill of Windham, and Tina M. Leonard and husband, Shawn of Howertown, PA; nine grandchildren; five sisters, Frances E. Holmquist of Peru, Carolyn J. Collins of Phoenix, AZ, Lois H. Bellegarde and husband, Conrad of Mexico, Laura E. Brown of South Portland and Lorraine E. Rickett of South Portland; and four brothers, Cleon E. Merrill and wife, Carolyn of Peru, Carroll L. Merrill and wife, Denise of Peru, Elwin L. Merrill and wife, Margaret of Peru, and Paul L. Merrill and wife, Carol of Roxbury.

He was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Eleanor G. Leo and Marilyn R. Batchelder; and three brothers, Leon H. Merrill, Melvin L. Merrill and Irving A. Merrill.

Erwin L. Merrill Sr. Photo:

Erwin L. Merrill Sr.