One of Newton's most dedicated public servants, Ward 1 Alderman-at-Large Carleton Merrill, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013. 

Merrill was a lifelong Newton resident who served tours in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was first elected to the Newton Board of Aldermen in 1950 and worked as the city's veterans and licensing agent for many years. 

The Newtonville Avenue resident served the city and region in a number of different positions including former commissioner for the Scouts of America, member of a cancer patient support group at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, member of the Newton Advisory Committee and Nonantum Advisory Committee and former chairman of the West Suburban Division of the American Heart Association.

See also -- PHOTOS: Remembering a Newton Alderman, Veteran and Public Servant: Carleton Merrill

Merrill was also known for his dedication to veterans. He worked as the former commander for the American Legion, former commander of the Newton Veterans of Foreign Wars and was a member of the Jewish War Veterans. 

If there was a Veterans Day ceremony, Memorial Day parade or Flag Day ceremony in Newton, you could guarantee that Merrill would be there in uniform, proudly saluting the flag.

Additional information on arrangements and services have not yet been released. Stay tuned to Patch for more information.

Now, it's time for you to share. Using the comments section below, post your memories of Alderman Merrill, thoughts on his passing and condolences.