Russell Edwin Merritt
August 12, 1927 – September 27, 2024
Russ Merritt passed away at his home in Sun City Center on September 27, 2024. Born on Aug. 12, 1927, in Sedalia, MO, to Lewis and Hazel Merritt, he spent his childhood years in several cities in Missouri, along with his late brother, Robert. Russ graduated with a degree in administration from Central Missouri State College (now UCM), where he was a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity. His service with the military was in Germany during WWII and then in Korea. His career led him to working with the military in contracts, after which he spent many years in blood-banking.
Russell’s greatest enjoyment was scuba diving, and he and his wife, Rosslyn, traveled extensively to explore marine environments. He was certified by PADI as a Senior Advanced Diver. Upon his retirement, he was one of the first to volunteer at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa and began work there as a diver even before they officially opened. He donated more than 3000 hours to cleaning and maintaining the massive tanks. His ardent desire was to dive at the aquarium on his 80th birthday, which he accomplished under the glare of nationwide TV cameras.
A respected member of the SCC community, Russ was a 40-year member of the SCC Computer Club, where he was devoted to the technology of computers. He held several offices in the club and spent many hours teaching computer skills. He was also active in the Security Patrol and served on the budget committee of the SCC Community Association. He left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Russell was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Rosslyn. He is survived by his wife, Ilona, of Sun City Center; two stepsons, John Baker (Washington) and Eric Baker (Michigan); and his nieces, Melissa Beal, Amy Merritt and Julie Kelly (Missouri). The interment will be at sea.
Russell’s greatest enjoyment was scuba diving, and he and his wife, Rosslyn, traveled extensively to explore marine environments. He was certified by PADI as a Senior Advanced Diver. Upon his retirement, he was one of the first to volunteer at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa and began work there as a diver even before they officially opened. He donated more than 3000 hours to cleaning and maintaining the massive tanks. His ardent desire was to dive at the aquarium on his 80th birthday, which he accomplished under the glare of nationwide TV cameras.
A respected member of the SCC community, Russ was a 40-year member of the SCC Computer Club, where he was devoted to the technology of computers. He held several offices in the club and spent many hours teaching computer skills. He was also active in the Security Patrol and served on the budget committee of the SCC Community Association. He left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Russell was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Rosslyn. He is survived by his wife, Ilona, of Sun City Center; two stepsons, John Baker (Washington) and Eric Baker (Michigan); and his nieces, Melissa Beal, Amy Merritt and Julie Kelly (Missouri). The interment will be at sea.