Eston L. "Shorty" Merritts, 72 of Punxsutawney, passed away at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, March 1, 2017.

Mr. Merritts was born on May 6, 1944 in Alliquippa, a son of the late Lester L. and Martha (Detweiler) Merritts.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Terry (Leipold) Merritts of Punxsutawney.

He enjoyed being a Lay Minister, and he was a Trooper with the State Police for 30 years. He spent the majority of his career at the Punxsutawney Barracks. He was an avid hunter safety instructor, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. He also liked spending time at his camp. He was very active in the Jefferson County Republican Party.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son; Scotty Merritts (Holly) of Mahaffey, one daughter; Amy Heigley (Todd) of Walston, two brothers; Gary Merritts of Petersburg, Richard Merritts (Vicki) of Huntingdon, one sister; Barbara Merritts of Hanover, and four grandchildren; Jordan Merritts, Kruz Merritts, Ryen Heigley, and Kaden Heigley.

A funeral service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at Grace United Methodist Church with Pastor Clint Phillips officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Mr. Merritt's name to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Hunter's Safety Instruction, District 133- 2, Southern Jefferson County, @ Priorty First Bank, 422 E. Main Street, Punxsutawney, PA. 15767 or to the donor's choice.

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