Merritt Herbert Thilk "Sarge," passed at home with his family at his side. Born August 10, 1921 in Wilson, he was a son of the late Herman and Hazel (Woodcock) Thilk.

He helped his father work the family farm and graduated Wilson High School class of 1941, entering the US Army November 7, 1941 to August 13, 1945, serving in the 12th and 15th Army Air corps as a bomber radio operator.

Merritt worked as the service manager for Sears Roebuck for five years and it is where he met his wife, Marion F. Heim. Together they founded and operated MH Thilk Electric in 1950.

In 1952 he was one of the founding members of the South Wilson Fire Company and was elected Chief on November 7, 1952 and served that position until December of 2004. In 2002 Governor Pataki honored him for his years of service as he was active in the Niagara County Chief's Association and was a past President, 1960 to 1961. Merritt was Treasurer of the American Legion Band along with playing trombone and lifetime member of the American Legion Post 836. A member of the NYS Fire Chiefs' Association, NYS Volunteer Firemen's Association, Niagara County Volunteer Firemen's Association and Disabled American Veterans. He liked to hunt and bowl for the South Wilson Fire Company and still serves on the board of directors for the company.

Surviving is a son, John (Coleen) Thilk of Wilson, Diane (Thomas) Briner of Arlington, Mass.; grandchildren, Hazel (Andrew) Marecki, Alexia (Chris) Sroka, Jordan Thilk, Otto Briner, and Tayler Thilk. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his wife, Marion F. Thilk, August of 2016; and brother, Raymond Thilk.

Visitation will be Thursday and Friday 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM at the South Wilson Fire Hall with Funeral Services to be held Saturday 10 AM.

Memorial contributions to South Wilson Fire Company.

Arrangements by the Hamilton and Clark Funeral Home Wilson. hamiltonclarkonline.com