Merle Blair Impson, 75, of Tampa, FL, passed away as a result of complications from a stroke, on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, surrounded by his family at the Advent Health Hospital in Tampa.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Cheryl H. Impson, son, Darren Blair Impson (Kelly), and twin daughters, Tamara Impson Sims (Eric) and Tiffany Impson Galloway (Brian). Also surviving him are his eight grandchildren: Bella Bair Impson; Payton, Towner, Cash and Kipton Sims; and Keegan, Karson and Karoline Galloway.
Merle’s greatest passions in life were spending time with his devoted loving wife, Cheryl, his children, his grandchildren, and his close friends. Merle loved traveling, cars (from MG’s to Porsches), golf and business, particularly his own.
Born February 16, 1947, in Elmira, NY, Merle was the oldest of 3 children. He is preceded in death by his parents, David Blair Impson and Arlene Neal Impson. He is survived by his brother, Karl Impson (Dianne), and sister, Sonija Impson Bump (Scot). After graduating Kings College in Briar Cliff Manor, NY, Merle pursued a career in insurance and ultimately retired from a 25-year career in the paper industry. Upon retirement with International Paper in Harrisburg, PA, Merle and Cheryl moved to Tampa, FL, to ultimately enjoy their retirement in paradise. Always the businessman, Merle wasn’t quite ready to hang his hat, and in 2000, he purchased a Paul Davis Restoration franchise in Tampa. Paul Davis is an international franchise system that specializes in helping people in their time of need with property damage from water, fire, mold and storm. After growing the new company over the next three years, he invited his son and daughter-in-law to move down to Tampa from NYC to partner with him. After seven years of successful partnership, Merle sold the business to his son, Darren.
Merle and his wife have always been involved in the community, local charities and their grandchildren’s Christian schools. In lieu of flowers and for those who would like to give back in his honor, the family would like any donations sent to the school that his grandchildren attend, Family of Christ. Donations can be made through: https://foc-knights.com/donations Please make sure to add “In Memory of Merle Impson” in the comments section.
Merle was a great father figure, grandfather and husband. He will be sorely missed by those who knew him and knew of him.
We love you, Poppi.
4 Comments
Carole Garrett
Merle was my cousin by marriage. I admired his love for his wife (my cousin) and his children and grandchildren.
In recent years I spent more time with Merle and his family. I always loved talking to him. He was a brilliant man and one could never leave his company without learning something new. He was fun and every encounter with him was a real pleasure.
I, too, will miss him!
Butch and Linda Cleveland
Merle went to school with us rode our bus. He was a quiet kind guy.
We are truly sorry for you all.
Marshall Burnette
Lilian and I spent a lot of time with Merle and Cheryl over the years – golfing, cruises, European trips, North Carolina trips, Porsche events, and more dinners & martinis than can be counted. Merle and I also met for lunch as often as possible. As a long time close friend, confidant and advisor I will miss him greatly. He was taken too soon from his family and friends but the memories will last as long as we do. So long my friend, I’ll see you again on the other side.
hayduk thomas
I Keep trying to hold in I my mind images of the class of ‘65, but that becomes harder as I grow older! And everyone, like Merle, who die too young (75 is young to me) a little piece of me is gone too! So Merle, on this last trip of yours- Peace Be With You…..