JEFFERSON — Joseph W. Merwin, who painted industrial equipment and loved the freedom of the wilderness, died on Monday, May 4, 2015, after a long illness, surrounded by family at his home. He was 68.

Mr. Merwin was born on April 27, 1947, in Jefferson, in Schoharie County, the son of William R. Merwin and Mildred Clark. He attended Jefferson schools.  

After he lived in Schoharie, Mr. Merwin made his home on Dyer Road in Jefferson.

He worked at Walter Truck in Voorheesville, DJ Contractors, and at Atlas Copco in Voorheesville as a painter for industrial equipment, from which he retired.  

He married Donna Kreiger on May 5, 1968, their marriage ending only with his death.

“Joe was a strong believer and a lifelong member of the NRA and enjoyed his freedom in the wilderness, hunting and fishing,” his family wrote in a tribute.  “Along with his work, he enjoyed autobody work and painting and re-finishing.” 

Mr. Merwin is survived by his wife, Donna (née Kreiger) Merwin; their four children, Eric W. Merwin of Schoharie; Jed C. Merwin of Schoharie; Justin V. Merwin and his girlfriend, Nicole Siesto, of Schoharie; and Amanda M. Merwin and her boyfriend, Ryan Carr, of Jefferson.

He is also survived by two grandchildren, Kyle Merwin and Jozalyn Merwin; two brothers, Walter B. Merwin of Schoharie and Marty Marsh and his wife, Tina Marsh, of Howes Cave; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 8, at the Gallupville Rural Cemetery.  

Memorial contributions may be made to Marathon For A Better Life, Post Office Box 468, Warnerville, NY 12190.