It is with heavy he
arts that the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, Ontario announces the passing of two amazing, long time Rotarians, Ron Mergl and John Corfield.
Dr. Ron Mergl passed away on July 4, 2020, from glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a very aggressive brain tumor. Ron has practiced as a veterinarian in the Niagara Region for over 35 years and contributed to and participated in several foundations, boards, charity events, volunteer clubs, and best of all was a dedicated family man.
Ron has been involved in the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls for over 33 years, where he was past president and a multiple Paul Harris Fellow. He and his wife, June, dedicated much of their time to Rotary, and words cannot describe their hard work and generosity within the Niagara Region and beyond.
Ron and June participated in Rotary International Immunization Days against polio in India and Benin, Africa, spending a month at a time, while using their own money to do so. Ron influenced so many people within the community to join Rotary because of his remarkable personality and demeanor.
Rotarian John Corfield passed away on July 18th, 2020 at the age of 70. John was an active member of the Niagara community for over 45 years working as a Chartered
Professional Accountant and was a member of various service clubs. He has served as Past-President and Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, and he was the recipient of multiple Paul Harris Fellows. John has been involved in Rotary for well over 30 years.
Unfortunately, he spent the past eleven years of his life fighting an aggressive form of prostate cancer. John believed strongly in participating in experimental treatments in the hopes of finding a cure for cancer so that his grandchildren would never have to endure the pain and suffering he experienced. John faced countless physical struggles and battles over the years, but he always greeted each day with a level of determination and strength that was unprecedented.
Over the years John has spent untold hours planning fundraisers and participating in Rotary meetings and events. John was well known for his comical jokes and vigorous singing at the weekly Rotary meetings.
Rotarian Ron Mergl and Rotarian John Corfield had such a passion for Rotary and helping others. Their generosity throughout the community was admirable. The unfortunate passing of these two Rotarians has been a tremendous loss, but the mark they have left behind in Rotary will continue to inspire others and never be forgotten.
