Merrill R. Mossbarger, Sr., 94, of Canton, passed away on August 28, 2024 at the Inn at University Village of Massillon.

He was born on December 2, 1929 in Patriot, Ohio to the late Thomas R. and Edith (Myers) Mossbarger.

He was a graduate of Cadmus High School and furthered his education at Coyne Technical College where he earned his certification in electrical engineering.

Merrill worked for Hannon Electric Company for 65 years as executive vice president and plant manager, overseeing branch locations as well.

He was a self-taught glass cutter and gifted each of his children a handmade Tiffany's lamp.

Merrill also enjoyed the water. He had a cottage at Atwood Lake where he was a member of the Atwood Yacht Club.

When he and his wife Janet celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, they started a new tradition of taking their family to the Outer Banks which continued for several years before Janet passed.

Merrill was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of Tadmor Shrine where he served as a driver for Shriner's Hospital for Children and enjoyed doing that well into his 80's.

He was a longtime member of  Crossroads United Methodist Church (formerly Church of the Savior) where he was very active; serving as financial treasurer and trustee and Sunday school superintendent.

In addition to his parents, Merrill was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Janet (Peterson) Mossbarger and his daughter Nancy (Mossbarger) Laird.

He is survived by his children, Linda (Gary) Heather, Louise (Bob) Young, Merrill R. (Kathy) Mossbarger, Jr. and Julie Hillenbrand; son-in-law, John Laird; 13 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandsons.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 3rd at 11 a.m. at Arnold Spiker Foster Shriver Funeral Home, 4817 Cleveland Ave. NW.

Calling hours will begin at 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Private burial will be held on Wednesday for immediate family only.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Chapel of Cross (GM), 14411 Orrville St NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666.