Tommy Ervin Harold Merta, age 84 of Salem, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Centralia Manor in Centralia, Illinois.
Tommy was born on December 25, 1941, in Evansville, Indiana, the son of Ervin and Margaret (Cobb) Merta. He married Patricia Ann Poe, and she preceded him in death.
Survivors include his children, Michele McNeil and husband Jeff of Centralia, Timothy Merta and wife Linda of Salem; seven grandchildren, Thomas (Lauren) Merta, Tony (Casey) Merta, Tyler Scott (Amanda) Wood-Merta, Taylor (Ben) Nation, Sasha Neubauer, Olivia Rogers; twelve great-grandchildren; sister, Nina Merta of FL; niece, Laura (Dr. Don Nunn) Seidel of KY; and beloved Turpin family of Evansville IN.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret; wife, Pat of Louisville Ky; son, Thomas L.S. Merta and life partner Teri Riley of Louisville KY; niece, Terri Seidel of Tallahassee FL; granddaughter, Beth McNeil of Centralia IL; great-grandson, Howard Tommy Oliver of Mt Vernon IL.
Tommy was a native of Evansville, IN and a former resident of Louisville, KY. He had lived in Salem since 1976. His career included 37 years at World Color Press primarily as a Roto Engraver; 26 years working part time and full time with the Boyles family at RA Computers in Salem, retiring in 2018.
A few details about Tommy, aka Papa Coal Train: He was a man of Christian faith and shared a birthday with Jesus. He truly enjoyed living in the City of Salem, Illinois, spreading love and kindness with a touch of wit, and serving his community through RA Computers. His passions included trains, planting trees, fishing, extended solo rides on his bike, golf cart, and scooter. He also enjoyed shooting guns, keeping his Grand Marquis shined up, and sharing a good meal with family.
In keeping with Tommy’s wishes, there will be no public service. However, you can celebrate Tommy’s life by planting your favorite tree or paying it forward with an act of kindness. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com