In January of 1949, Merrill married his best friend, Fannie Gomes, and the couple resided in West Point to raise their family. Merrill and Fannie, who met at a young age, have known each other pretty much their whole lives, enjoying 67 years of marriage.
In 1952, Merrill joined the United States Army and proudly served his country. He did a tour in Korea, returning home as sergeant in 1955. Upon returning home, Merrill was back on the water, lobstering and fishing. He loved the ocean, never considered a day out there work, he enjoyed every minute until retiring the summer of 2014. He also was a teacher, as he taught many young men his trade. Something he was very proud to pass onto others.
Merrill also had a passion for wood carving, something he did in his spare time. His favorite carvings were boats, fish and ducks, but he would carve anything you asked for. He loved spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren. He was a strong man with a big heart, and will be sadly missed by all those that loved him.
Merrill leaves behind his wife, Fannie of West Point; a son, Mitchell Wallace of West Point; two daughters, Diane Decker of Sanford and Traci Wallace of West Point; grandchildren, Chand Decker and his wife Iva of Las Vegas, NV, Jeremy Decker and his wife Eliza of Skaneatles, NY, and Alicia Mcdaniel and her husband Regan of West Point; six great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind friends who have been like family, Cheryl and Herb Yeaton and Brooke Gilliam. A special thanks for all your love.
A memorial service will be held at a later date this summer.
To share your thoughts with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.
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