It was a great surprise as I was thinking of him and the time that we grew up in Brunetteville, spending time at the pool and learning to swim and our summer in cadet camp and his leg being broken playing ball. The following year we spent summer as junior forest workers and built a campsite. There was hockey and we played in Public School on the same line with Richard Ferguson where win or loose didn't deter us in any way; and the outdoor practices in 50 below weather; on the way home talking of what we'd eat for super. It's nice to hear of his career and family and let them know of all the great memories I shared with Merlin.

It is with deep sadness that we learn of Merl's passing. Bob and I offer our condolences. Merl was Bob's friend in Kapuskasing where I met them both in 1958. Bob and Merl were part of the Kap gang that lived together in Toronto

while attending university. Bob and I attended Merl's sister's wedding in Kap. Althogh we lost track of him after graduation, the memories have endured.

Peggy and Bob Dodds

Luba and Family, I was sadden to hear that Merl passed on. I had worked with him for many years and enjoyed our many office chats.I know the love and prayers of your family and friends will see you through this time of sadness. Sincerely, Marcia Smith

Luba and Family,

Our deepest condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely, Christina Tatarniuk and family.

To Luba & Family,

Merl struggled for years but was a fighter and made the best of it.

He thoroughly enjoyed the monthly Executive luncheons and attended everyone he could.

Had the pleasure of working with Merl for 14 years and quickly learned some of his favourite

sayings. “Fix and Go”

“Make a decision”

“Get on with it”

I was grateful that I could count on Merl when needed.

Although I have lost a mentor and a friend who is no longer in pain. Rest In Peace my friend, rest

In peace.

To Luba and family

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Merl he was a great guy and we will miss him.

We have many fond memories of our association working together in the HBC Ottawa region

and then later in Alberta. Yes he was not only a good merchant ,but also a good hockey player.

Our kids still have fond memories of the annual Santa Claus breakfasts at Merls HBC restaurants

In Ottawa.

Our condolences to entire family

Gary and Marion Kelley

To the Family...I had the pleasure of working (from a distance) with Merl for many years with the Hudson's Bay Company. He was a great merchant and in his more senior appointments was a caring 'boss'. I wish the Family peace at this time, lots of great memories to remember Merl as the great guy he was...thoughts and prayers for all.

-Frank MacTaggart

It is with great sadness that I have, in learning of Merl’s passing. His many adventurous stories that would come to light every time we got together, would put a smile on my face and those around him. He will never be forgotten for his many opinions, especially politics and his many hours sitting watching CNN and reading the countless number of newspapers that filled his day. But it is the friendship over the many years of vacations together in Maui that will not be forgotten as well as the numerous suppers together over the years that bonded our friendship that I will cherish. My condolences go out to the entire family, as you go through this difficult time.