GARY "GRASSHOPPER" MERRILL
HARTLAND, ME – Gary Clayton Merrill, 59, died peacefully February 28, 2008 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Gary was known as “Grasshopper” to his friends and co-workers. He was born June 28, 1948 at Middleton, CT, a son of Clayton and Anna (Vining) Merrill. He grew up in Deep River, CT and graduated from Valley Regional High [Deep River], Class of 1968.

He served in the U. S. Navy for four years, including a tour of duty in Vietnam.

Gary moved to Maine in 1978 where he was a talented welder, employed by various construction companies in the northeast. He enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, working in his garage and around his home.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Vanessa (Moran) Merrill of Hartland; 3 daughters, Tiffany Dodge and husband Ricky Jr. of St. Albans, ME, Rhonda Merrill and companion Richard Lawler, Jr. of Plymouth, ME, Melanie Isabelle and husband Stephan of Norton, VT; a very special sister, Sharon McCann and husband John Michael McCann of Deep River, CT; 2 grandchildren, Erik and Shayna Isabelle; an uncle, Clifford Vining and wife Thelma of Newport, ME; two aunts, Helen Springer and husband Lawrence of North Berwick, ME, and Jackie McCourtney and husband Paul of Rockwood, ME; many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, aunt Shirley (Merrill) Warren, and Uncle Clifford Merrill. Gary will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held 1 PM Wednesday, March 5th, at St. Albans Union Church with the Rev. Leonard Reiss officiating. Spring burial will be in the Village Cemetery, St. Albans, ME.

Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal, 117 Main Street, Newport, ME. Memorial donations may be made to HealthReach Hospice, 212 Main Street, Waterville, ME 04901.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.CrosbyNeal.com.

A graveside committal service for Gary Merrill, who died February 28, 2008, will be held 1 PM Saturday, May 31st, at St. Albans Village Cemetery with the Rev. Leonard Reiss officiating. Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal, Newport.