Merle Paul McWayne (“Bean – Papa Bean”), 80, of Watertown, NY

Merle Paul McWayne, lovingly known as “Bean” or “Papa Bean,” was born on November 25,1945, in Watertown, New York, to the late Glenn and Ruth (Peer) McWayne. He passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Samaritan Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family members. His departure leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and the legacy of a man who loved deeply and wholeheartedly.

On November 1, 1974, Merle married the love of his life, Bonnie J. (Grant) McWayne. Together they built a beautiful family and shared many years of devotion, joy, and partnership until Bonnie’s passing on December 11, 2003. Merle carried her memory with him every day thereafter.

With his marriage to Bonnie, Merle became an immediate father to Keith (who passed away March 13, 2026), Kelly (Gary) Ritter (Watertown, NY), and Kimberly Chawgo (Plano, Texas).He later welcomed Mark McWayne (Brownville, NY), Glenn (Sarah) McWayne (Henderson, NY), and Chad (Brandi) McWayne (Watertown, NY), completing the family he cherished so deeply. One of Merle’s greatest joys in life came from being a grandfather. He was the proud Papa to Garry Jr.(Makayla), Shaelea (Steve), Austyn (Tessa), Joshua (Kelly), Brianna (Larry),Kailey, Christopher, Kendra, Cain, and Colton, and great- grandfather to Garry Jr. III. His bond with his grandchildren was extraordinary—he adored them from the moment they arrived, and they adored him right back. He was truly one of the best Papas anyone could ask for, always ready with his famous thumbs-up and his warm, familiar words: “Who loves ya, buddy?”

Merle dedicated many years of hard work and service to ending his career at the Town of Watertown, retiring 1975; however; he remained working part time at the Town of Hounsfield to keep busy. He took pride in everything he did, especially when it came to caring for his home. His lawn was always trimmed to perfection, a reflection of his belief that taking pride in one’s surroundings mattered. He also enjoyed his breakfast clubs at local diners, where good food, good conversation, and good company brought him genuine happiness; along with his morning coffee gatherings with his brothers.

Those who knew Merle will remember his strong personality, his attention to detail, his particular way of doing things, and his unwavering love for his family. He showed he cared not through grand gestures, but through consistency, presence, and the countless small ways he supported the people he loved. Though he is deeply missed, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Merle is survived by his brothers Buck (Watertown, NY), Aden (Watertown, NY), and Edward (Cindy) McWayne (Adams Center, NY), along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Ruth McWayne; his beloved wife, Bonnie J. McWayne; his step-son, Keith; son-in-law, Gary Ritter; his brother Bob; and sisters-in-law Patricia and Helen McWayne.

In honor of Merle’s wishes, there will be no services. A celebration of life will be held at the Sackets Harbor American Legion, 29 Ambrose Street, Sackets Harbor, from 2 pm to 4 pm on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

Arrangements are with the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.hartandbrucefh.com