Roland Lee Merrill, Jr.
VICTORIA — Roland Lee Merrill, Jr left this earthly world on August 20, 2021. He was born on June 28, 1935 in Brookhaven, Mississippi to Roland and Louise Merrill. His early years had been spent in a number of small Texas cities earlier than settling in Victoria, TX. He attended Patti Welder High School, the place he met the love of his life, Patricia Sue Petrash. He graduated within the class of 1954, and married Patsy in 1956. They would have celebrated 65 years of marriage later this yr.
Roland was a bundle of power and a tough employee his total life. While in Junior High, he delivered papers for the Victoria Advocate. He labored for the Victoria Advocate for a variety of years, together with a number of different half time jobs. His favourite jobs had been across the water – instructing swimming classes at Victoria Country Club and lifeguarding at Pleasure Island pool. He finally settled right into a 30 plus yr profession with Union Carbide. Roland and Patsy began a small enterprise within the storage of their house in 1968, and Victoria Pool Service (VPS) turned his actual work ardour. He ran and grew the household enterprise for 53 years, principally whereas he labored one other full-time job. His final day of labor at VPS was the day earlier than he died, and he wouldn’t have had it another approach. Serving his workers and his prospects was a lifestyle for Roland, and he was by no means fairly prepared to surrender that keenness.
Roland cherished his household and spending time with them. He and Patsy have three kids, seven grandchildren, and three nice grandchildren that had been the brilliant spots of his life. He was lucky to have an in depth prolonged household with Patsy’s brother and sister and their kids. When not spending time with the household, Roland loved puttering in his yard, working across the pool, grilling, and feeding the birds, who will miss his undivided consideration.
Roland was a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church, and he was an ordained Elder, serving numerous management roles. He loved many friendships that he constructed within the church. Roland by no means met a stranger and would typically function a greeter or usher, inviting all he met to affix.
Many might be saddened by the sudden dying of Roland, however none greater than his spouse Patsy, who journeyed alongside him sharing within the joys and challenges of life. He additionally leaves behind his kids Terry Merrill (MaryKay), Walter Merrill (Wendy), and Laurie Norman (John). Known as “Gramps” to his grandchildren, they embrace Kylie (William), Kerbie (Brett), Kade, Kasten, Erin (Jake), Ryan and Colin. Three nice grandchildren had been a current pleasure to Roland, and they’re going to miss the chance to know this glorious man. Roland had 4 particular nieces who had been extra like daughters to him – Monica (Alan) Strelec, Kim (AJ) Gerbino, and Liz (Nicky) Huff. Also surviving Roland are his sister-in-law, Margaret Ann Brownlee; brother-in-law, Jim Petrash (Lynda); and step grandchildren Sarah, Jared and Kathryn. Niece Rhonda Hooper and brother-in-law Bill Brownlee preceded him in dying.
Roland is survived by the present and previous workers of Victoria Pool Service, who he thought of a part of his prolonged household. He might be missed by many suppliers, workers, and prospects that developed friendships with Roland over his lengthy profession within the pool enterprise.
Roland actually loved individuals, and he took time to make every particular person he encountered really feel essential. Many had been direct recipients of his recommendation, generosity, and selfless nature. These traits, and his joyful outlook on life, might be cherished recollections of a person affectionately referred to as “Gramps”, “Uncle Roland”, or “Mr. Roland”.
In lieu of flowers, please think about honoring Roland with a donation – Food Bank of the Golden Crescent P.O. Box 5085. Victoria, TX 77903; Victoria Christian Assistance Ministry (VCAM) 108 N Liberty, Victoria, TX 77901; or First Presbyterian Church 2408 N Navarro St, Victoria, TX 77901.
Due to Covid19, the companies are deliberate for instant household solely. All who want to bear in mind Roland are inspired to cease by Rosewood Funeral house to signal his visitor e-book or go away a be aware on-line. The household appreciates your ideas and prayers.
