After graduating from Jenkintown High School in 1938, Mr. Merz earned a bachelor's in government from Harvard University.

"Two of his professors at Harvard were Arthur Schlesinger and Robert Frost," said nephew Andrew. "While in college, he began his lifelong career of counseling children at Settlement House in South Boston."

During World War II, Mr. Merz wrote stories for Stars and Stripes from the South Pacific. He was discharged in 1945.

Mr. Merz cofounded Blue Bell Day Camp, a children's summer camp in Blue Bell that operated for more than 60 years.

In 1948, he joined the family insurance business, Leon Merz Co., based in Society Hill. Mr. Merz specialized in underwriting and casualty insurance until retiring in 2003 as a partner. The firm changed names to Merz Huber and moved to Swarthmore.

Mr. Merz was active with the Big Brothers of Philadelphia and B'nai B'rith Youth Organization. He also coached a championship youth basketball team. Mr. Merz was a member of Philmont County Club in Huntingdon Valley, and the Locust and Vesper Clubs in Philadelphia.

Mr. Merz is survived by another nephew, Robert.

A memorial service was held Sunday. Donations may be sent to B'nai B'rith Liberty Region, 1420 Walnut St., Suite 720, Philadelphia 19102.