MERRITHEW, EARL ALEXANDER It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Earl Alexander Merrithew of Douglas, NB, husband of Helen (Norquay) Merrithew, on Monday, May 25, 2009 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. Born on December 12, 1923 in Douglas, NB, he was the son of the late William and Rita (McCoy) Merrithew. Earl was a proud farmer of a centennial farm and posted a farm sign Earl Merrithew and Sons, and he was also a natural story teller and an avid joker. He was an animal lover and enjoyed fiddle music. Earl very much enjoyed visiting and talking with the apple pickers at the family farm, Merrithews U-Pick. He was dearly loved by all. In addition to his wife, Earl is survived by his daughters, Joyce Allen (Fred) of Nackawic, NB and Charlotte Evans (Brent) of Fredericton, NB; sons, Hazen Jewett of Nackawic, NB, Neil Jewett (Elaine) and special friend "Jack" of Douglas, NB and Lester Jewett (Donna) of Douglas, NB; eight grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; sister, Eleanor Pugh (Ralph) of Lakeland, Florida; brother, George Merrithew of Fredericton, NB and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Earl was predeceased by his sons, Earl Jr. "Toag" and Leon; brothers, Ed, Stanley and Fred. Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive on Thursday, May 28, 2009 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. A Funeral Service will take place at Douglas Baptist Church on Friday, May 29, 2009 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Peter Moore officiating. Pallbearers for the service are Lester, Neil and Hazen Jewett, David Waugh, Clarence Sherman, and Bob Walton. Interment will take place in the Dayton Cemetery after the service. Reception to follow at the Douglas Church. The family would like to give special thanks to a great caregiver, Jane Shepard (Merrithew). For those who wish, remembrances and donations may be made to the Fredericton SPCA, the Canadian Diabetes Association or the charity of the donor's choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com