Richard R. Merrill Sr.

Richard “Shorty” Merrill Sr., beloved Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolann “Carol” (Natzke) Merrill, with whom he shared many wonderful years.

Shorty was born on February 19, 1943 in New Britain, CT to the late Florence (Bonola) Merrill and Hiram Merrill. Shorty was a long-time resident of Middletown, CT and spent his final years living with his daughter who lovingly cared for him ensuring he was comfortable and cared for.

Shorty met Carol in high school and they married in 1964. They built a home in Middletown where they raised three children, creating countless memories together. They owned the Chatterbox Cafe in New Britain. Shorty worked as a mechanic for the City of New Britain. He enjoyed racing the stock car he built at Plainville Stadium. He enjoyed working with his hands and took great pride in building his home. His garage was truly his second home–some might even say his first! He spent countless hours there building, repairing and tinkering with projects. It was also a favorite gathering place surrounded by good friends, sharing stories, laughter and time together. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family.

Shorty leaves to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy, his daughter, Ruth (John) Bogden of Berlin; his sons, Richard Jr. (Karen) Merrill of East Hampton and John (Channon) Merrill of Deep River; his grandchildren, Matthew Bogden, Alaina Bogden, Crystal Merrill (Daniel), Kelly Merrill, Sean (Cat) Merrill, Kayla Merrill, and Sean and Kayla’s mother, Keira Merrill; his step-grandchildren, Jocelyn Burgess, and Justin (Christine) Burgess; and his great-grandchildren, Vera Bogden, Kora Bogden, Florence Merrill and Lincoln Burgess. He is also survived by numerous extended family members. He also leaves behind his devoted four legged Best Friend, Samuel.

Richard’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff from Hartford Healthcare Hospice and special thanks to his nurse Sue.

To honor his life, family and friends will gather for visitation hours on Friday, November 13, 2026 at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 South Main St., New Britain, CT from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 9:30 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1755 Stanley St., New Britain, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter or a charitable organization of their choice.