Roger Merrell, 74

LEE, Mass. — Roger H. Merrell, 74, of Lee, Mass., passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 14, 2017.

Roger, the son of the late Roger C. Merrell and Jacquelyn Clark Merrell, was born in Springfield, Mass., on October 18, 1942.

Roger grew up and lived most of his life in Western Massachusetts. He held a lifelong passion for fishing, which included fishing for trout in local streams as well as fishing for snook and red snapper during his annual winter vacations in Florida. He was proud of the large northern pike he caught while camping with his family on Lake Opemiska, a hundred miles north of Quebec City. 

He loved animals, especially his black lab Chrissy. Roger was an avid fan of all Boston teams. While he enjoyed the Bruins and the Celtics, he was most fervent in his loyalty to the Red Sox and the Patriots.

Roger had a keen sense of humor that began with the observation of everything around him and focused on the most humorous elements. People close to Roger appreciated his funny observations, fond nicknames for loved ones, and original catchphrases. While he had an indomitable spirit of independence, Roger was even stronger in his loyalty to others.

Roger leaves his brother Richard and Richard's wife Susan of Middlefield, Mass.; and his beloved niece, Janis Merrell of Belchertown, Mass. 

He was predeceased by his older brother Everett C. Merrell of Pittsfield, Mass.

Roger also leaves friends and associates at several agencies, including his housemates, coworkers at the Center for Development, and the many dedicated people from both CCS and BCARC who have been both his friends and advocates for many years.

Funeral notice: A Memorial Service for Roger Merrell will be held Saturday, February 25, 2017, at 10 a.m. at the Kelly Funeral Home with the Rev. Janet McKinstry, officiating. A reception will immediately follow at Roger’s home at 185 Marble St., Lee. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make a donation in Roger’s name to a charity of ones’ choice.