Celebrating the life of
Harry William Merz, Jr.
November 19, 1934 - July 10, 2022
It is with great sadness that the family of Harry William Merz Jr. (Bill) announces his passing on Sunday, July 10th, 2022.
Bill was born on November 19, 1934 in Philadelphia, PA to Harry and Gladys Merz and grew up in nearby Collegeville. In 1955 he married Marlene Nixon. They raised their family in Limeport, PA. Later, he moved to Radley Run in West Chester, PA and married Lisbeth (Posy) Anders. They retired to the Landings in Savannah, GA where he lived for 27 years.
He graduated from Collegeville-Trappe High School and graduated from Duke University with a BS in Civil Engineering where he enrolled in the Naval ROTC. After graduating from Duke, he served in the Navy for three years. He and his young family were stationed in London, England for part of that time. After the Navy, he attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston where he received his MS in Civil Engineering.
Bill had a long career in the bridge construction industry, working for Nyleve in Emmaus, PA and then heading up the Bridge Division of IA Construction in West Chester, PA. His bridge career culminated in his role as advisor on the Diamond Causeway Bridge in Savannah. He was very involved in scouting growing up, achieving Eagle Scout. He shared his love of the outdoors with his sons, taking them on many canoeing and skiing adventures. He and his wife Posy enjoyed traveling in their later years. Bill was also an avid tennis player and loved to ride his bike – doing both activities well into his 80’s.
Surviving are his four sons and their spouses – Steve and Lisa Merz of Virginia Beach, VA; Marshall and Wendy Merz of Reading, PA; Scott and Julie Merz of Ann Arbor, MI; Matt and Cindy Merz of Kensington, MD – as well as ten grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is also survived by his sister, Winifred Ann Brown, of Kennebunkport, ME and his brother and sister-in-law, Jeff and Peggy Merz of Keelerglade, WV. He is pre-deceased by his wives, Marlene Merz and Posy Merz.
The family is planning a private memorial in the near future. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests any remembrances be made in his name to a charity of your choice.
We are so sorry for your loss. He would perk up every time he spoke of his boys and their families. The way he cared for Posy was incredibly tender. We enjoyed his sense of humor and we send heartfelt condolences to you all. Beth & Bob Tarjan from The Landings
- Beth and Bob Tarjan, Savannah, GA
Met Bill on the tennis court in 1999. We were both from the Philly area of PA. Posy startled me by stating that she remembered me from high school as a boyfriend of one of her classmates. Also was in golf group with Bill for many years. His wit was prevailing and his amazing care for Posy remarkable. We shared great memories of the Philly area over the years. Appreciated his Naval service in early life. We bantered a bit about the Military as I was career Army. Most sincere condolences to the family.
- Jerry Hipp, Savannah, GA
I got to know Bill through Monday morning tennis at the Landings, which morphed into our Wednesday group that he managed. Bill was always able to provide the perfect quip or jab when an easy shot was missed. I always enjoyed his stories of the Navy. Since he couldn’t get around the court like I’m sure he would have liked to, he dominated the game by his drop shot or the quick winner down the line. A true gentleman, he will be missed by all who got to know him.
- Anthony Berens, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- No Funeral Service
