James Merz

James William Merz, age 79, of Columbus, Ohio passed away Tuesday, November 1, 2011 at Columbus Healthcare Center. Jim was a 1950 graduate of Holy Rosary High School, a U.S. Army Veteran and had retired from Nu Look Fashion. He was an active supporter of Boy Scout Troop 79, alongside his son, Lewis, a lifelong Cardinals fan and enjoyed cheering on the OSU Buckeyes. Jim had a passion for the game of softball…having played on the high school and Army baseball teams, and in rec leagues even up until recent years in the Columbus Senior Softball League. He was active in the Dodge Community Center and will be missed by many good friends from Southwinds Park, Sarasota, FL. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Carl Price and a brother-in-law, William Szuch. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Patricia (Szuch) Merz and was the proud father of Lewis Merz; grandfather to Christopher Merz and great-grandfather to Bryce Merz. He is also survived by his brother, Clarence “Butch” (Nancy) Price and sister, Sarah “Sally” (Ernie) Tonetti; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Peraldo and Drema George; brother-in-law, Louis Szuch; numerous nieces, nephews, softball buddies and other dear friends. Family will receive friends 12-2pm and 4-6pm Saturday, November 5, 2011 at Schoedinger Hilltop Chapel, 3030 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204 where a funeral service will begin at 6pm; Pastor Tim Lee, officiating; Private family burial in Green Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Central Region Office, 870 Michigan Ave., Columbus, OH 43215. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories or extend condolences to Jim’s family.