Cyril Robert Merth

Cyril Robert Merth was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

       Paul, MN. He was the son of Frank and Alberta Merth. Cyril grew up in St. Paul, MN.

      Cyril was raised with 8 siblings. He had 5 brothers - Herb, Bernard, Walter, Ralph, Len - and 3 sisters - Helen, Florence, Ethel. Cyril was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      As a young boy, Cyril had a number of interests. Cyril was an active child who took part in long-blade skating and swimming. However, to Cyril, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

      A typical teenager, Cyril had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from St. Bernard's, St. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers.

      On May 21, 1949 Cyril exchanged wedding vows with Mary Agnes Ziegler at St. Patrick's Church of St. Paul, MN. Empathic and loyal, Cyril was committed to making his new family happy.

      Cyril worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Cyril was blessed with 7 children, sons Mike and Tim; daughters Toni, Rose, Kathy, Beth, Mary. Cyril also was fortunate to have wonderful sons and daughters in-law - Curt, Paula, Sherry, Dave, Don, and James. Another blessing for Cyril was the gift of 14 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren, Grandchildren - Levi, Leah, Andrew, Carrie (husband Andy), Joseph (wife Amy), Kristen, Jennie, Matt, Heidi, Jason, Errick, Sophia, Jonah, Benjamin Great-grandchildren - Aayla, Isaac.

      Fortunately, Cyril enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Cyril worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was computer tab operator. He was employed for several years at First National Bank/U. S. Bank. Cyril always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      Cyril was a Marine. He was in the battle at Iwo Jima. Cyril saw action for WWII. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of Platoon Sergeant. He received several awards recognizing him for his service, including a Purple Heart; Presidential Unit Citation ribbon bar w/star; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign medal w/three bronze stars; Victory Medal for WWII. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

      Cyril enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were jig-saw puzzles and attending MN Twins baseball games. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone.

      Cyril found pleasure in sports. Cyril was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were MN Twins baseball games.

      Cyril’s faith was important to him. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament parish, St. Paul, MN for 50 years.

       In retirement, he found new pleasure in riding his bike, attending MN Twins baseball games, going downtown St. Paul for coffee. This was his social time.

      Cyril passed away on February 9, 2010 at St. Anthony Park Home, St. Paul, MN. Cyril lived a good life until age 89 when he started developing dementia. His battle with this disease was short but he did his best to continue to be 'Cy'. He is survived by his children and their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one sister, Helen. Services were held at Blessed Sacrament church, St. Paul, MN. Cyril was laid to rest in Fort Snelling National Cemetary, Minneapolis, MN.

      Simply stated, Cyril was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Cyril Robert Merth.