Wayne W. Merris, Sr., 87, of E. Petersburg, passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2017 at Lancaster General Hospital with his family by his side. Born in Harrisburg, PA he was the son of the late Floyd Clayton and Mary Mabel (Witmer) Merris. He was the loving husband of Mary Jane (Albright) Merris, with whom he shared over 66 years of marriage. He worked as an independent distributor for Pepperidge Farms, Thomas and Drake for over 40 years as well as owned and operated Mary Janes's Bakeshop with his wife at Roots Market for 40 years. Wayne enjoyed bowling and was a voracious reader, especially of WWII books. He was a Charter Member of the E. Petersburg Lions Club and the Silver Sneakers Club at Universal Fitness, where he walked 3 miles a day prior to his illness. Wayne was an avid hunter and also enjoyed traveling. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Family was everything to him and he loved spending most of his time with all of them. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his 5 children: Carol Love (Bill) of Manheim, Janice Sahd (Greg) of Lancaster, Wayne Jr. (Corri) of TX, Frank of E. Petersburg, and Margie Lindemuth (Darryl) of Lititz; Grandchildren: William (Tara), Christy (Josh), Jackie (Shane), Lauren (Jason), Julia (Joe), Sara (Jay), Emily (Adam), Dan (Robin), Bethany (Chris), Tyler, Ryan and Erin; 13 great-grandchildren with 2 more arriving this year. Also surviving are his sister Eva King of Florida and a host of loving nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his siblings: John B., Floyd C., Charles, Richard and Viola. The family would like to sincerely thank Lancaster General Hospital, ICU and 7 North for their professional, dedicated and loving care during his stay. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. If desired, contributions in Wayne's memory may be made to School for the Deaf, 300 East Swissvale Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15218 .

"And if I go, while you're still here. . . Know that I live on, vibrating to a different measure -behind a thin veil you cannot see through. You will not see me, so you must have faith. I wait for the time when we can soar together again, both aware of each other. Until then, live your life to its fullest. And when you need me, Just whisper my name in your heart, . . .I will be there."