Thomas R. Merrifield

Thomas R. (Merf) Merrifield, 85, of Plymouth passed away Monday.

Born in Plymouth, he was the son of the late Thomas and Mary Evans Merrifield.

He was a graduate of Plymouth High School, where he excelled in football with his twin brother, the late Charles (Chick) Merrifield. He was a member of All Saints Parish, Plymouth.

He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during World War II, and was a member of the American Legion, Shawnee, Post 1425 and the Disabled American Veterans.

Prior to retirement, he was employed by Foster Wheeler Corp., Mountain Top, as a welder and crane operator. Prior to this, he had been a miner for various coal companies throughout the Wyoming Valley and was a member of the United Mine Workers of America.

Throughout his life, Tom was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed attending college football games at Lehigh University. He greatly enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by twin brothers, Charles (Chick), Arthur and Albert Merrifield; sisters, Ester Miller, Irene Robertino and Margaret Jones.

Surviving are his wife of 65 years, the former Helen Slusarik; children, Thomas C. and his wife, Margo, Newnan, Ga.; David J., Pittsburgh; Mary Rittenhouse and her husband, Jeff, Plymouth; grandchildren, Renee; David J. Jr. and his wife, Ann Marie; Derek Merrifield and Katy Rittenhouse; Geoffrey and his wife, Melanie Rittenhouse; great-granddaughter, Isabella (Layla) Merrifield; daughter-in-law, Kathy Merrifield; numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held Thursday at 8:30 a.m. from S.J. Grontkowski Funeral Home, 530 W. Main St., Plymouth, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 9 a.m. in All Saints Parish, Plymouth. Interment will be in St. Mary's Nativity Cemetery, Plymouth Township. Friends may call Wednesday, 5 to 8 p.m.

Contributions may be made to the Plymouth Public Library, 107 W. Main St., Plymouth, PA 18651.