Hallet T. Merrick, Jr.

Hallet T. Merrick, Jr. (80)

 Hal was born in Worcester, MA 30 October 1943 to Hallet T. Merrick, Sr. and June Augusta (Hall.) He attended school in Grafton, graduating from Grafton High School in 1961. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and served as a cook for four years, stationed mainly in Groton, CT and Cape May, NJ.

He worked for several years for his father’s business, Thrifty Outfitters, sold cars, and toiled for fifteen years as a “beer delivery technician” for Consolidated Beverages. He retired at age fifty-two and began his own excavation company. He retired for good in 2008 and began his last career as a poker player, organizing and playing in tournaments around MA and CT.

Hal never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went. He and his wife travelled to many NASCAR races over the years, and he never missed a televised race, including NHRA, Indy cars, or Formula One. He kept up with the news and urged everyone to VOTE.

He leaves his wife and partner of 44 years, Pauline (Atwood), his son Sean and wife Crystal, his son Joe DeSalvio and his wife Tris Anne, his daughter Karen DeSalvio and her husband Rick Nacca, step-daughter Debbie DeSalvio along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Keith in 2013 and his brother Jeff in April. Also by two previous wives, Shirley (Derie) and Grayce (Strojny.)

Hal will have no services and burial will be private at a later date.