NAPLES — On Thursday, February 24, 2022, Curtis Roy Merrill passed away with his family by his side after a brief illness.

Curtis was born on August 7, 1937, to Everett Merrill and Hattie Mae Mayberry of Casco, and grew up with three older siblings, John, Delvin and Kathleen. Curtis attended local Casco schools, where he was a talented athlete excelling in baseball and basketball. Once graduating Casco High School in
1957, he attended SMVTI. After finishing school, he followed in the footsteps of his two brothers by enlisting in the Army in 1960. After leaving the service, he worked for L.C. Andrews and then began his own construction company building houses throughout the area including his family homestead. After years of building, he went on to work many years at Hancock Lumber. In the latter part of his career, he worked at SAD 61 as the lead maintenance person at Crooked River Elementary School, where he was surrounded by children who were always happy to see him.

While on leave from the Army in 1962, Curtis met Marian Nighswander in Naples who he later married in 1966. That loving and prosperous 55-year marriage produced two sons, Steven and Troy.

Throughout his life, Curtis was always willing to lend a hand and became a well-known member in his community. When his children were young, he volunteered as a baseball coach and Cub Scout leader. His volunteerism continued to the Casco/ Naples Fire & Rescue, where he took immense pride in helping others. He was a 56-year member of the Free Masons Oriental Lodge #13, where he was elected Worshipful Master of the lodge numerous times. Curtis found a true passion in advocating for veterans and their many charities and would never miss a parade or ceremony where the fallen were honored. He was a longtime member of American Legion Post 155, serving as commander many times and earning multiple awards along the way. Both he and his wife spent countless hours in the Togus Veterans' home speaking with and helping many with their various needs, even if it was simply lending an ear or sharing an experience. There was never a shortage of stories when Curt started talking! Upon retiring, he spent a lot of time on the golf course with his close friends, particularly at Poland Spring Golf resort.

Curtis leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Marian; a son, Steven and his fiancée Stacey; a son, Troy and his wife Tessica; grandchildren, Curtis, Karen, Cody, Allyson and Nickolas and a great-granddaughter, Madison.

There will be a memorial service Saturday, March 5, 2022, at the American Legion #155, 26 Casco Road, Naples, ME 04055 at 3 p.m. There will be a private burial at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Curtis’ memory to the following organizations:

American Legion Post #155, Attn: Curtis Merrill Memorial Fund, PO Box 164, Naples, ME 04055

Masonic Oriental Lodge #13, Attn: Ron Bell – CRM Memorial Fund, 147 Cooks Mills Rd., Naples, ME 04055

Arrangements are in the care of the Hall Funeral Home in Casco where your condolences and tributes are welcome at www. hallfuneralhome.net.