Merton Harold Cole, Jr., 90, of Springfield, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at Mercy Hospital surrounded by his daughters. Merton was born in Westfield, MA., on September 10, 1931, the son of the late Merton H., Sr., and Doris (Beech) Cole. Merton proudly served our country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Merton attended Putnam Trade School in Springfield, Ma. After he left the Navy, he worked as a mechanic for several years before he began his job at Eversource Electric Services (formerly Western Mass Electric Company). He worked there for 35 years, retiring early to enjoy his family. Merton was an active member of Blessed Hope Advent Christian Church where he served as a trustee, deacon, usher, and participated as a member of the board. In addition, he was a member of The American Legion in East Longmeadow. He kept himself very busy when he wasn’t working. Merton loved traveling with his wife, golfing, bowling, furniture making and other types of carpentry, and boating. He could be seen most days outside in his yard where he took special pride in cultivating his green lawn and taking care of his flowers. Merton was a loyal Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Bruins fan. Above all, Merton cherished family gatherings such as holidays, birthdays, and barbeque picnics in his yard. Merton was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. He had a great sense of humor, loved to laugh, and joke around. He was adored and loved by all who knew him, and his smile would light up their day. Merton will be missed but never forgotten. In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by his beloved wife Norma K. (Held) Cole in 2019 and two brothers James and Roger Cole, and a sister Nancy Cole. He is survived by his four devoted daughters Diane Mead of Springfield, Debra Crouse and her husband Kevin of Enfield, CT, Patricia Caputo and her husband Richard of Springfield and Lori Bernardi and her husband Michael of Longmeadow, and he leaves seven adored grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as “Pops”, Amanda Bousquet and her husband Kyle, Nicole Mead and her partner Will, Christopher Caputo, Meghan Bricault and her husband Allen, Jonathan Bernardi, Samantha Bernardi, and Emerson Bernardi and he leaves three great-grandchildren, Brayden Bousquet, Charlie Bousquet, and Gwendolyn Bricault. As well as Robert Templeman, a great friend who provided good care for Mert. We would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to nurses Jeremy and Kiley at Mercy Medical Center for their compassion and care. Family and friends will gather and remember Merton on Wednesday, January 19, 2022, from 5-7p.m. at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield, MA. Burial and military honors will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 20, 2022, in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 516 Carew St. Springfield, MA. 01104. www.byronkeenan.com