Ralston Wentworth Merchant Jr.

Condolences and sympathy to all the Merchant family.

Robert and Susan Thomson

I knew Ralston at Shady Side Academy. Always liked him. So sorry to hear of his passing.

I was saddened when I heard about Ralston´s passing and send my condolences and deep sympathy to the entire Merchant family.

I first met Ralston in September 1967. We were roommates our freshman year at Lehigh University. My first week he had already set us up for a double date with a girl he knew and her best friend. He also had friends who were upper classmen which got us early admission into some of the parties up on "The Hill."

As I recall, Ralston was a fairly successful student, but was also someone who never would pass up an opportunity to go out and have some fun. We spent the next three years together, having fun, after we both joined the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity.

After Lehigh I moved to Boston and because of his low draft lottery number, Ralston joined the Navy. When he got his orders to report to OCS duty in Newport, RI we made plans for him to visit me and after a fun weekend together in Boston I would drive him down to Newport.

We did have our fun weekend (except somehow I ended up with a black eye!) and then we loaded up my car and headed south

When we got to Newport, a uniformed "greeter" started shouting orders at Ralston right after he got out of the car. Ralston "hopped to it" and we started to unload his luggage. When we took out his squash bat and golf clubs, the officer in charge came running down the sidewalk yelling orders and questioning Ralston´s intentions. Did he think he was here on holiday? Was he here just to play golf? Leave those bags at the curb and proceed inside to check-in, etc. It was an inauspicious start, but as it turned out, Ralston was in the Navy to play golf and that´s what he did for the next 4 years!

After that, I sort of lost touch with Ralston but would get occasional updates from Steve Rice who was in more frequent contact with him. Ralston also attended one of our Fiji Alumni dinners in New York City and it was a pleasure to see him again.

I know the years took a toll on his health, but I´ll always remember Ralston as a fun and loyal friend full of energy, imagination, and a zest for life.

May his memory be a blessing.

Perge,
Douglas Paige

To Marta and Hayden-
We extend our deepest sympathy at this time of great sorrow in the loss of Ralston. Our friendship extends over 40 years as we shared many happy celebrations together and the sorrow of losing loved ones. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you strength and grant Ralston eternal peace. With all our love,
Jeanie Zadrozny and Stephen Doby

My deepest condolences to the Merchant family. Raly was my PhiGam big brother at Lehigh. Loved his spirit.

Enjoyed his Obituary. Reminded me of the old golf joke . . . "Not even God can hit a 1-iron" , but evidently, Raly could.

I'm very sorry to hear Ral passed away. Marta, my heart goes out to you and pray for you. Ral was a great person and wish we could have stayed closer after you left Nevillewood.

I´m so sorry Marta.

My deepest sympathies to all of the Merchant family.

Connie Cannon

Marta, so very sorry for your loss. Condolences and prayers

Joanne Forbes

Ral was a great mentor to me at Longue Vue. He believed in me when I didn´t believe in myself. He was so much fun to play golf with. I´m forever grateful for the many rounds we played together.

Michael Bolanis

Marta, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope memories of your many years together and the adventures you shared help make this difficult time more bearable. I loved reading about Ralston. He sounded like a really a terrific guy!

Sorry for your loss our tthoughts and prayers are with you and your family

Marta, sending prayers and hugs to you and your family.
Thinking of you, Sallie Beth

I did not know Ral, but after reading the other memoirs, I feel as though I did know him. Thanks to all who wrote the messages and the writer who introduced me to Ral and his family. What a guy he was and what a legacy he left for his friends and family! Thanks to all who inspired me today.
Blessings,
Carol Hirsch (CUMC member)

I just met Ral recently and immediately felt a connection but after reading this wonderful acccounting of his life I realize that is probably what anyone who met him felt. My most sincere condolences to the Marta, Hayden and the rest of the family. I am very sad that I did not have the opportunity to spend more time with him on earth but will look forward to more connection in heaven!!!

What a wonderful Obit to capture the Ralston spirit that all who knew him in whatever aspect, can laugh and enjoy the friend we lost.

Ralston took me under his wing at Longue Vue and we partnered in several Diebold matches. Including a memorable round together in the better ball at PFC. Loved playing golf with Ralston- the ultimate competitor on the golf course. My condolences to the family.
Trouter

What a beautiful tribute to a very dynamic and special man. Our condolences to Marta and all the family.

One of the best guys I knew. My 3 year Jim Henry story is hard to top. Love you Ral!

Too many great memories. For me, a great friend, a mentor-sort of, and an inspiration. I spent tens of thousands of hours with my pal. Never a dull moment.
Beeks