John Henry Merchant

Tractor-trailer driver for Coen Oil. John H. Merchant, 81, of Washington, died Saturday, August 26, 2006, in Donnell House, following a two-year illness. He was born February 1, 1925, in Washington County, a son of Robert Edward and Virginia Belle Sonda Merchant. Mr. Merchant attended Trinity High School, served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and was a member of Church of the Covenant in Washington. He was employed for 45 years by Coen Oil as a tractor-trailer driver. Mr. Merchant enjoyed hunting, fishing and collecting antiques. On June 23, 1945, he married Mary Jane McGowan, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Daniel Lee Merchant of New York City; a daughter, Susan Diane Merchant (John) Hudock of Avella; a brother, David Merchant of Washington; and two grandchildren, Patrick John and Heather Jo Hudock. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Monday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 29, with Pastor Gary Gibson officiating. Burial will follow in Washington Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions to Donnell House, c/o Hospice Care of Washington Hospital, 155 Wilson Avenue, Washington, PA 15301.