WILLIAM J. MERHAR

One week ago today my Great Uncle Bill passed away. Due to the untimely death of my Grandfather, he had essentially took-on as surrogate of the role. Uncle Bill was not only extensively gifted musically, but socially as well. He was the single most charismatic individual I have ever known and cannot recall any scenarios where he did not have something appropriately witty to say. ...Never at a loss of words whether it be an expression for the sake of pure fun; or much needed helpful advice....

Bill Merhar was many things in his life: a great Musician, intelligent, personable, generous and most of all, a great friend! I first met Bill in 1965 when I joined the St. Mark's boys choir as a sixth grader. Bill taught us how to sing many of the Classic religious pieces written by the Masters: Bach, Beethoven, Handel, both in Latin and English. I remember Bill preparing us to sing with the Men's Choir at Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. That was very special for us, to sing with the big...

Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to the Merhar family during this very difficult time.
We know Uncle Bil and his music will be deeply missed!

Don & Jan Slis

I will miss my Uncle very much. He was always very kind and nice to me. He had a beautiful voice and I know how much he loved the Opera. I never realized how active he was in the Cleveland community only because I have lived out of state for the past 24 years. You'll be dearly missed Uncle.

My condolences to Bill's family and friends. He was a classmate at St. Vitus School. Our fellow classmates always enjoyed his attendance at our reunions. We will miss him.

My prayers for Bill -- and my sympathy for his family and friends. Bill was a kind and gentle man. He was the Music Man of St. Mark's from its earliest days -- always with his own unique style. He could make Kumbaya sound like Gregorian Chant or vice-versa -- whatever would make you happy for a family funeral or wedding. He somehow managed to be clear-voiced for the 6:15am Mass. Happy memories of choir -- O Holy Night -- and music class with Sister LaVerne -- Angels From the Realms of...

My deepest sympathy to the Merhar family and his partner. I hardly new Mr. Merhar. I met him while he was a patient at Lakewood Hospital. I was his menu specialist. He was always so kind. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

David Barney, Lakewood

Bill will be sadly missed. He was more than a friend - he was like family, forever concerned, caring and compassionate. Our girls, Kristen and Karin and my brother Conrad's five children all called him Uncle Bill. He showed genuine concern about their struggles and achievements. When we got together for family gatherings we expected Bill to be there celebrating with us. I often called him William in jest, after he related a story about the owner of the music store he once worked for.

I'll always remember the love Bill showed to my in-laws, Stella and Leo Urban. Bill could make Stella laugh as no other. It was his gift to her. We will miss you.