Merle Arthur Trott Jr.

BANGOR – It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of Merle Trott Jr. on Tuesday Feb. 24, 2026, surrounded by family.

Merle was born on Oct. 26, 1969 in Bath to Merle Trott Sr. and Sophronia Trott (Bibber). He graduated from Lawerence High School Class of 1989.

At the age of 16, he created the character, Tickles the Clown. He would spend the next 40 years bringing smiles to scores of children all over the state of Maine. Starting the ’80s he worked for the Robert’s Brothers Circus as well as traveling across New England, opening McDonald’s, dressed as various McDonald’s characters.

He worked over 25 years in the mental health field and was a registered life guard. Merle was involved in professional wrestling for over 20 years and was very proud to be part of the Maine Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. He also performed at the Clinton Fair for 30 years and dressed as Santa for many different events over the years. He taught percussion at Messelonskee and Lawerence High Schools and was a member of the R B Hall Band and the Dunlap Highland Band.

He was predeceased by his mother and father.

He is survived by his wife, Rachel Trott of Troy; his sister, Melissa Bernardini (Michael) of Albion; son, Christian Trott and fiancé Kayla Mckenna of Waterville, stepson, Kyle Haley of Troy; grandchildren Lillian Bernardini McKenna and Kenneth Trott; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

We would also like to give a special thank you to Michael Bernardini Jr. and Jen DeLorenzo for the amazing care they provided these last few years.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday March 21, at 12 p.m. at the Waterville Masonic Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to

Rachel Trott

407 Whitaker Rd.

Troy, ME 04987