GORHAM — Chester Walter Merrifield, Jr. of Gorham passed away Feb. 1, 2011 at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough.

He was born in Gorham on April 13, 1931, the son of the late Chester W. and Gladys (Libby) Merrifeld, Sr.

Chet’s childhood was spent growing up as one of 10 children in and around Gorham and South Windham. He had fond memories of his early years near the banks of the Presumpscot River. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and gardening.

Mr. Merrifield was a U.S. Veteran and served his country in the Navy. He worked as a truck driver most of his working life.

He married Edna Louise (Hall) Riley on Dec. 20, 1952 in Portland. They made their homes over the years in Windham, Westbrook, Buxton and Gorham. Chet and Louise lived their later years on Sebago Lake Road in Gorham. They enjoyed attending the Grace Bible Church in Gorham for many years.

Family members include his children, Michael Riley of Gorham, Francine Edwards of Naples and Chet Merrifield, III of Standish; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Jean Doloff of Gorham, Helen Pierce of Windham and Catherine Legere of South Casco; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by a son, Edward Riley, three grandchildren; brothers Clayton, Paul, Burton and Lawrence; and by his sisters, Ann Stanley and Barbara Wiggin.
Memorial services were held at the Grace Bible Church, 74 Deering Road, Gorham on Sunday, Feb. 6, 2011 with Rev. Robert White, officiating. Spring burial will be in the Hillside Cemetery, Gorham.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Road, Scarborough, ME 04074.

Arrangements by the Dolby Funeral Chapel, Windham. For online condolences, please visit their website at www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com