Ed "Jake" Merson, 73, of Bishopville and formerly of Crisfield, died Thursday, September 6, 2012 at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Baltimore City on March 1, 1939, he was the son of the late Hilton and Marie Catherine Jacobson.

He was an entrepreneur and a US Army veteran.

He enjoyed Harley Davidson motorcycles, music-especially playing guitar and harmonica, being on the Chesapeake Bay, and spending time with his family. He fulfilled his life-long dream of having a large family.

He is survived by 13 children, Hilton Anthony Merson, Ellsworth Edward Merson, Melony Renee` Wagner, Margarette Mary Hudson, Thomas Edward Merson, John Paul Merson, Seth Michael Merson, Garth Peter Merson, Marie Catherine Merson, Hans Nicholas Merson, Daniel James Merson, Claire Jean Merson, and Molly O'Neill Merson; 15 grandchildren, Michael, Brice, Cade, Ethan, Gabriel, Mackenzie, Farah, Dallas, Jadyn, Riley, Bo Elaney, Colton, Kai, Gavin, and Sophia; and his former wife, Jean Marie Merson.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Cheryl Marie Merson.

A viewing will be held Sunday, September 9, 2012 from 12-2 PM at Bradshaw & Sons Funeral Home in Crisfield where the Rev. David Parke will share at 1PM. A graveside committal service will be held Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 12 Noon at St. Peter's Catholic Church Cemetery in Centreville with Father Mark Kelleher officiating.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.bradshawandsonsfuneralhome.com