Merril L. Blotzer 1938-2025

Born Aug. 27, 1938, in Lincoln Place, Pa., Lee lived a life characterized by hard work, love and dedication to his family.

Lee’s professional career with UPS began as a truck driver, and he quickly rose to the top as a center manager. He earned a reputation for his leadership and dedication to service. He left UPS in his early 40s to be his “own boss.” Lee found fulfillment in self-employment as a “jack-of-all-trades,” where he continued to demonstrate his industrious spirit and skill, with a mix of shenanigans thrown in.

Lee graduated from Connelly Vocational High School, where he learned a little about everything. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t build or fix. Everything always seemed to work, even if there were leftover parts afterward. This eventually became one of his trademarks and a running family joke.

Lee honorably served in the United States Navy, a testament to his dedication to his country.

Lee is survived by his wife, Charlene; her son, John Dunn, and his children, Dallas, Michael, Rachel and Sarah; daughters, Christine Blotzer and Kathleen Ruby; grandchildren, Ashley Hernandez, Jacob Ruperto and Jessie Ruperto; and great-grandchildren, Noelle Hernandez, and Madison, Chase, Natalie, Caleb and Tyler Ruperto. Lee also is survived by his sisters, Georgine Manns and Barb Testa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merril and Esther Lawry Blotzer, and his sister, JoAnn Otoltics.

Merril Lee Blotzer’s legacy will continue to resonate through the lives he touched with his kindness, strength, generosity and unwavering spirit. His family and friends will remember him for his warm heart and the joy he brought to those fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration-of-life memorial will be planned for spring 2026.

Arrangements are by the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel.

(special notice)