Robert Ethington Merritt

On January 9, 2024, Robert Ethington Merritt peacefully passed away at the age of 81 in his cherished family home in Joppa, MD, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on October 24, 1942, he is preceded in death by his beloved parents William R. Merritt and Edith M. Merritt (Schoff).

Robert took great pride in celebrating 55 years of marriage to his beloved wife Suzanne Merritt (Mears). Together, they raised three children: Michele, Brian, and Therese. Known for his unwavering dedication, Robert worked tirelessly to care for his family and created cherished memories during camping trips, barbecues, holidays, and shared moments watching sports. He also actively participated in coaching sports teams, served as a Scout troop leader, and enjoyed being Santa and the Easter Bunny for local PTA events when his children were younger.

A man of service, Robert held a deep sense of pride for his 41 years of dedicated service as a firefighter with the Baltimore City Fire Department and as a medic in the Army Reserves. Retiring as a Lieutenant from BCFD, he saved many lives during his tenure but also bore the weight of the lives he saw lost. In 1985, he received recognition as the Outstanding Firefighter for the City of Baltimore.

Robert had a profound love for nature, dogs, the Baltimore Orioles, and history, particularly that of the City of Baltimore, the Civil War, and WWII. He enjoyed capturing family moments through photography, leisurely walks, Sunday drives, tending to his home garden and fishpond, exploring genealogy, and sharing gatherings with retiree friends. His interests extended to activities like crabbing, fishing, boating, and indulging in his favorite treat, chocolate Entenmann's donuts. Above all, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren.

Robert is survived by his wife Suzanne and leaves behind his daughters,  Michele Victor and Therese (David) Tolley; son, Brian (Tabitha) Merritt; brother, William (Joann) Merritt; sisters, Dorothy (John) Romanowski and Carolyn (John Holloway) Merritt; grandchildren, Nicholas Brown, Taylor Merritt, Alyssa Merritt, Matthew Merritt, Rachel Victor, Hannah Tolley, Abigail Merritt, Nathaniel Merritt, Rebecca Merritt, Sean Merritt, and Jack Tolley; great-grandson, Liam; niece, Colleen Severyn; nephews, William Merritt, Matthew Romanowski and Sean Holloway.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation (T2T.org) or the Baltimore City Firefighters Local 734 Widows & Orphans Fund at 1202 Ridgely Street, Baltimore, MD 21230, honoring Robert's commitment to service and community.