Ralph M. Merrill

Ralph M. Merrill, age 80, of Leawood, KS, passed away on Wednesday, December 22, 2004. Mr. Merrill had been a resident of Leawood since 1973. Mr. Merrill was born November 5, 1924, in Fort Edward, NY. He was a 1942 graduate of Fort Edward High School. Following graduation, he became employed with AT&T. Shortly thereafter he enlisted ion the Army Air Corps, where he served in Intelligence in South America for the duration of WWII. Upon return from the war in 1945, he resumed employment with AT&T. Shortly thereafter he met Edmay Richer, and they were married May 29, 1948. His employment with AT&T took the family to Albany, NY, Harrisburg, PA, New York City, NY, Omaha, NE, and ultimately to Kansas City. They had two children, Gary and Nancy. In 1984, he retired from AT&T. A few short years into retirement he began working for H&R Block as a personal tax preparer and was looking forward to the upcoming tax season. He enjoyed his involvement in the community, especially the Kiwanis Club. Ralph served KC Kiwanis Club as President, MissouriArkansas Division 4 as Lieutenant Governor and Missouri-Arkansas District Governor. In addition to involvement in with Kiwanis Club, he gave generously of his time to the Ararat Shrine and to St. Peter's Episcopal Church. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Nancy Merrill. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Edmay Merrill of the home; one son, Dr. Gary Merrill of Burnt Hills, NY; and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 3-5 p.m. Sunday, December 26, at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Monday, December 27, St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 100 East Red Bridge Road. Burial in will be in Union Cemetery, Fort Edward, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kiwanis Student Assistance Program. (Arrangements: McGilley State Line Chapel, 816-942-6180)