Merle Edward Chamberlain

Merle Edward Chamberlain

April 29, 1926     November 19, 2020

Merle E. Chamberlain, 94, of Williamsburg, passed away Thursday morning, November 19, 2020, at Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, following complications from COVID-19.

He was born in Canoe Creek, son of the late Leroy and Wilda K. (Hoover) Chamberlain.  On May 27, 1949 he married C. Lorraine Burger in Williamsburg and she preceded him in death on February 16, 2002.

Surviving are two daughters: Regina L. Patterson (Ed) and Penny S. Edwards (Harry) both of Williamsburg; and a brother, Don D. Chamberlain of Altoona.

He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Allison Brooke Edwards; a sister, Janell E. Criswell; and two brothers: Sylvester A. “Spiff” and Palmer L. Chamberlain.

Merle was a 1944 graduate of Williamsburg High School.  He was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII, serving aboard the U.S.S. Dorothea L. Dix, which was awarded 5 battle stars during the war.

He retired as a quality control technician in 1988 from Westvaco Envelope, Williamsburg (formerly U.S. Envelope) with over 30 years of total service.  Merle volunteered for many years for Rails to Trails of Central Pa, affectionately known as the local “Bicycle Repairman”.

He loved spending time with his family, endless hours at their camp and hunting, especially with his brother, Don.  Merle also enjoyed hiking, bicycling, camping and had a deep rooted love for history, whether it was local, WWII or the Civil War.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions a private graveside service with military honors will be held at Royer Cemetery, rural Williamsburg, Pastor Tiffany E. Marvich officiating.  A celebration of life service is being planned for a later date.  Arrangements are by John K. Bolger Funeral Home Inc., Williamsburg.

Memorial contributions in memory of Merle can be given to Rails to Trails of Central PA Inc., P.O. Box 592, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.