Born on Oct. 29, 1945, growing up initially around Kensington Market before graduating from Forest Hill Collegiate, countercultural curiosity inspired Merilyn to become a trailblazer in the Toronto advertising industry, along with inheriting an enthusiasm for Jewish community connections. She later taught media and marketing at private colleges, a venue to exchange inspiration with younger generations.

The daughter of Sarah and Max Weisblott, she was also predeceased by brother Joseph Weisblott and sister Hyla Aronoff. Nieces and nephews Steven (Elyse), Ellen (David), Marc, Daryll, Evan, Michael (Perri), Richie, Noah, Sam and Seth grew up hearing the views of “Auntie Mer” fueled with a cold Coca-Cola and a stack of Pringles.

Memorial donations may be made to The Forest Hill Jewish Centre (https://www.foresthilljewishcentre.org/).