Robert M. Merson, passed away September 24, 2019 in Boca Raton, FL with his loving family by his side.
Bob was born on May 1, 1938 in Oklahoma City, OK. He and his older brother and best friend, Harry were raised by their loving parents, Camille and Herman Merson.
Growing up, Bob's parents taught him that the most important things in life are family, showing people respect, always staying true to your words and following the Jewish faith.
Bob lived every day of his life believing and following those values and naturally inspired others to do the same.
In 1957, Bob enlisted in The United States Air Force. In 1958, while studying at the University of Oklahoma, Bob met the love of his life, Arlene. Their immediate attraction and appreciation for one another was truly a rare find, and for 61 years, their family and friends witnessed that their love was truly one out of a storybook.
In May of 1961, Bob graduated from the University of Oklahoma married to Arlene and excitingly waited for the arrival of their first born. Bob set out to build a career in order to create a wonderful life for his family.
Bob was always a "go-getter" and a remarkable businessman. Shortly after moving to Meridian, MS, Bob saw an opportunity to purchase Southern Electric Supply, which at the time was a very small division of the Southern Pipe and Supply company.
Through his consistent hard work and keen ability to identify the potential and talent in others, Bob grew the company to become one of the largest electrical supply companies in the United States.
Although many people viewed Bob as outstanding and inspiring, he remained completely humble. He never spoke about his business success because he believed that the only success that mattered, was being kind to others and providing strong family values.
Bob's happiest times were those spent with his family. Bob was a loving and inspiring father to his two children, Howard and Michelle and a "Papa Bob" to his four grandchildren, Josh, Rebecca, Sammi and Hannah.
Everyone who met Bob came away a better person because they experienced his warmth and sincerity. Bob Merson positively influenced and touched the lives of thousands of people; he is a true legend and will be missed dearly.
Funeral Services 10:30AM Thursday September 26, 2019 at Temple Beth El 333 SW 4th Ave. Boca Raton, FL 33432.
If you wish to make a donation in honor of Bob, please make it to JAFCO, Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options, 4200 N University Dr, Sunrise, FL 33351 954-749-7230 (https://www.jafco.org/donations/).
For further information contact KRONISH FUNERAL SERVICES / ([email protected]) or 561-717-2874.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Palm Beach Post from Sep. 25 to Sep. 26, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Merson

13 Entries

Ryan Leeds

October 3, 2019

Bob was a gift to our community, a man who personified class and selflessness. I, among so many others, am blessed to have known him. The memorial service was as moving and beautiful as I can ever remember. Baruch Dayan Emet

Greg Hatcher

September 27, 2019

Bob was always a builder -- building his company, building relationships and building the confidence of others. I have and will always remember the great example he showed during the years working with him at Southern Electric and Rexel. He will be missed. Rest in peace.

Sy Ginsberg

September 27, 2019

Our sincerest condolences to the entire family.
Sandy and Sy Ginsberg

Paul Mareno

September 26, 2019

Because Bob believed in me and gave me a chance, it has had an everlasting effect on my life.
He will be sorely missed, God bless him.

September 26, 2019

Rest in peace

Mike Laborda

September 26, 2019

Today I attended the funeral of one of the best people that ever touched me and my family's life. I met Bob in 1988 when he acquired the company I worked for. I was all of 31 years old and eager to get ahead in this world. Bob convinced me to move from Florida to OKC and manage a fairly large branch out there. It so happened that he was from OKC, so I got to spend a reasonable amount of time with him when he came to visit his family. Bob really became a mentor to me and taught me many of the principles that I have carried all through my life. I later left to take over my parent's business and wound up running it for the next 26 years. I copied many of the things I learned from Bob. Ironically, when it came time to wind it down a little, I again hooked up with Bob and he acquired my company in 2017 allowing me to semi-retire and leave my company and employees in a really good place. You see, Bob changed the direction of my life twice.

He was truly a great person and leader. I will be forever grateful for what he did to make me a better person.

To Michelle, Howard, and all of his family. I was touched by your loving tribute to your father today. He deserved everything that was said about him. I just wanted you to know how I felt.

Ouida Tomlinson

September 26, 2019

Love and prayers for Bob and Arlene - from Arlene's high school class of 1958, Meridian, MS High School.

Joel Richardson

September 26, 2019

"Everyone who met Bob came away a better person", truer words were never spoken. A Great man and a gentle giant in business. His care for people was very evident. I was extremely blessed to have met him and known him.

David Byrd

September 25, 2019

Bob truly shaped my life and my family for the better. He was one of two greatest men I have ever known.

Danny Mckissack

September 25, 2019

Bob,was my boss for45 years,in Meridian and you could not ask for a better boss or friend. He loved people and treated them as a friend. Bob will be missed. Will remember the good times with Bob in command.