Final Salute

NORWICH – Kenneth P. Merchant Jr., 96, passed away on April 28, 2023, surrounded by his family in the home that he built.
He was born in Oneonta on March 9, 1927, to the late Kenneth P. Merchant Sr. and Elda (Ellsworth) Merchant.
He attended Oneonta High School, leaving to join the Navy in 1944 at the age of 17, returning to graduate after his honorable discharge.
On March 9, 1947, he married Beatrice Burdette from Baltimore. Together they had two children, David Kenneth Merchant of Tyner, and Cheryl (Merchant) Gawronski of Dunkirk; and two very special grandchildren, Ryan and Julie.
In 1947 he was employed by New York State Electric and Gas as a laborer. Subsequently he served as a lineman, chief lineman, line foreman, and general foreman. Through self-education, the G.I. Bill, and NYSEG educational assistance program, he became the local operating superintendent in Norwich in December of 1975. After a dedicated career, he retired Aug. 1, 1988.
A veteran of World War II, he served with a U.S. Naval Construction Battalion (Seabees) in the South Pacific. He participated in the campaign and occupation of the island of Okinawa.
During his lifetime Kenneth took an active role in his community through many different interests. He served as president of a PTA in Oneonta, president for seven years of IBEW Local 992, president of Norwich Booster Club, president and charter member of Norwich Lions Club, president of NYSEG Quarter Century Club, vice president-NYS Association of Electrical Workers AF of L-CIO, and served on the board of the Norwich YMCA, and the Chenango Valley Home. Past memberships include the City of Norwich Electrical Board, Chenango County Emergency Management, Chenango County Cooperative Extension, and United Way. He was a life member of Norwich Elks Lodge 1222 and the American Legion and was a current member of Broad Street United Methodist Church. He was also a First Aid and CPR instructor for several years.
An ardent outdoors person, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, birdwatching, golf, and surface hunting for Native American artifacts, all passions he shared with and passed on to his son and grandson.
Kenneth is survived by his loving “bride” of 76 years, Beatrice; children, David Merchant and Cheryl Merchant Gawronski; granddaughter, Julie (Sam) Tickle and granddaughter-in-law, Lauri Gawronski; sister, Shirley Wood; several nieces and nephews and many close friends.
He was predeceased by his brothers, Don and Sherm Merchant; and grandson, Ryan Kenneth (Lauri) Gawronski.
According to his wishes there will be no calling hours or public service. A private graveside service will be held in Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Kenneth’s family extends a special thank you to Dr. Scott Cohen and Hospice of Chenango County for their compassion and care.
Those wishing to honor and remember Kenneth are encouraged to make gifts to Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County, Department DN, 33-39 Court St., Norwich, NY 13815, or the Norwich Family YMCA, 68 N. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815.
Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.