Robert (Bobby) J. Merritt Jr. died Oct. 11, with his family by his side. He was 67.

Bobby was born in Quincy on Jan. 17, 1957. Being in a military family, he and his family experienced living in many states and countries. When they moved to the Vineyard, Bobby knew he was home. With his love of fishing and ability to read the ocean, he would scout out great fishing spots. He always looked forward to competing in the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby.

Bobby served his community for many years as an EMT, as well as working with Vineyard Pool and Spa.

He took great pride in being a Master Mason in the Oriental-Martha’s Vineyard Masonic Lodge. He was working his way up the line of officers where his last chair he served was senior deacon.

He will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Ann Merritt; his sister Gail (Greg) Hines, his brother David Merritt; his nieces and nephews, Michael (Sherry) Hines, Christopher Willis, Patrick (Jamie) Willis, Emily (David Cunha) Hines, Katie (Matt) Curran, Nicole Merritt, Scott (Joana) Merritt; great nieces and nephews, Alice, Evelyn, Mika, MacKenzie, Hannah, Sean, Harper, Madeline, and Kaio as well as numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Robert J. Merritt Sr.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 10-11 a.m., followed by a service at Chapman Funerals, 56 Edgartown Rd., Oak Bluffs. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart cemetery on Vineyard Avenue in Oak Bluffs with a Masonic Funeral Service performed by Oriental-Martha’s Vineyard Masonic Lodge. A celebration of his life will follow at the PA Club, 137 Vineyard Ave.

Remembrances can be made in Bobby’s honor to Oriental-Martha’s Vineyard Masonic Lodge, P.O. Box 5046 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.