Eugene " Buddy " H. Merges

Eugene Howell “Buddy” Merges, loving brother and good friend, passed away at age 62 on June 23, 2022.

Buddy was born on October 30, 1959 to Robert and Jean (Howell) Merges.  He attended Baldwin and G.W. Hewlett high schools and resided with his devoted sister Andrea in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Buddy is survived by another sister Tara Petrungaro (Jim); his brother Brian (Deneen); his favorite aunt, Margaret Becker (“Aunt Peg”); and many cherished cousins and friends.  

Buddy was a very talented man—an artist, designer, woodworker, carpenter, glass-fitter and glazier who brought skill and originality to all aspects of his handiwork.  He had a life-long  passion for motorcycles.  Music was an integral part of his life (the Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, the Doors, Jethro Tull, et al).  Buddy was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus.  Each degree corresponds with the four principles of the Knights:  Charity, Unity, Fraternity & Patriotism.  Bud’s patriotism was profound and he loved his country.

He was an active member of Narcotics Anonymous for many years, sharing at local meetings and working with inmates in the New York Department of Corrections.  In addition, he donated his time and skills tirelessly to Momma’s House, a not-for-profit residential program for young mothers and their babies, an organization whose mission he absolutely supported and believed in.

 Buddy’s faith was crucial to his well-being and he never lost his belief.  He was generous, loving and always willing to lend a hand.  Bud was wickedly funny, smart, very well read, meticulous and good looking (so we have been told!); he could tell you the ins and outs of scores of musical bands but hadn’t a clue as to what he had had for breakfast.  And he is gone too soon.  And if you ask anyone of his siblings or cousins how he got the nickname “Buddy,” they’ll all tell you a different story. 

“There is a road, no simple highway

Between the dawn and the dark of night

And if you go, no one may follow

That path is for your steps alone”

—Robert Hunter, Grateful Dead lyricist.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Buddy’s name to https://www.mommashouse.org/.