Richard C. Merges

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of (Dick) Richard Clark Merges (85), a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, who departed this world peacefully on August 28, 2024. Born in Albany on July 19, 1939, he was the second of five sons of the late Frank J. and Ann (Clark) Merges. He was a graduate of the Vincentian Institute. He earned a B.A. in English from Siena College in 1961, served as a Captain in the US Army 1962-1964, and earned a Ph.D. in Public Administration from the State University of New York at Albany, Rockefeller College in 1977. He worked for the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities until his retirement in 1995 as Director of Finger Lakes DDSO in Western New York. From the mid-1960's until his retirement, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the people in his care, specifically by developing community based living services throughout New York State.

In addition to his parents, Dick was predeceased by his daughter, Mary Kay. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Barbara Marie (Penny), children: Michael (Laurie) Merges of Rensselaer, N.Y.; Eileen (Nathan Napper) Merges of Edgewater, MD.; David (Julie) Merges of Farmington, NY; and Elizabeth (Chris) Carlin of Ft. Wayne, Indiana. He was the cherished grandfather of Nicole (Andy Tegas) Merges, Alexandra (Michael) Krein, Quinn, Peter (Nea), William (Grace), Henry (Ethan) Merges, Kayla (Nicholas) Kern, Joshua, Jonathan (Hannah), Catherine, Abby, and Lilly Carlin. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Natalie and Paul Krein. He was the brother of Bruce (Barbara), the late Robert (JoAnn), the late Paul (the late Barbara) and Frank (Renee) Merges. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and countless friends.

Dick loved to vacation with family at Cape Code and in the Adirondacks. He and Penny enjoyed traveling the US after retirement. He enjoyed taking walks, spending time with grandchildren, having lunches with his brothers and close friends, and doing communion visits for parish homebound. He was known for his steady presence, unwavering support, and a sense of humor that brought joy to those around him. He had a kind and generous heart and set a great example for all who knew him. Dick was a devout Catholic, and a Third Order Franciscan. 

He was loved dearly and will be deeply missed. The family will receive visitors on Thursday, September 5, at 10:00 am at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 35 Adams Place, Delmar, NY. A funeral Mass will be held immediately following, at 11:00. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 3rd Ave Ext, Rensselaer will follow the funeral. 

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to Siena College in memory of Richard C. Merges: Siena College, Development & Alumni Engagement, 515 Loudon Rd, Loudonville NY 12211.