William "Bill" Ralph Merton

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This article is about the British scientist and banker. For the German entrepreneur, see
William Ralph Merton
.

William Ralph Merton
Born
William Ralph Merton
Oxford University
Occupations
  • Military scientist
  • Merchant banker
Known for
Air warfare
research

William Ralph Merton (25 November 1917 – 2 September 2014)

venture capitalist and served as the chairman of the merchant bank Robert Fleming & Co. between 1974 and 1980.[2]

Early life and education

Merton was born in the

English Bar as a lawyer, and was called to the Inner Temple in 1944, though he ultimately chose a career in science and finance instead.[2]

Military research

During

Operational Research Section. Between 1943 and 1945, Merton also served as a scientific adviser to Frederick Lindemann, 1st Viscount Cherwell, who in turn advised Winston Churchill in military and scientific matters.[1] After the war, Merton served for some years as chairman of the Fulmer Research Institute at Stoke Poges, conducting materials research for state and industrial projects.[2]

Financial career and later life

In 1950, Merton joined the Erlangers banking house in the

asset manager Robert Fleming & Co., eventually serving as its chairman between 1974 and 1980.[2] He later retired to Hampshire, where he remained until his death at the age of 96 in 2014.[2]

Personal life

In 1950, Merton married Anthea Lascelles, with whom he had three sons.[2] After Anthea died in 1976, Merton married Judy Gwynne (née Rutherford), who survived him.[1] Merton was an enthusiastic gardener and maker of furniture, and even designed his own house in Hampshire.[2]

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f "Obituaries 2014". Oxford Today. 2 September 2014. Archived from the original on 3 May 2019. Retrieved 2 March 2021.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m "William Merton - obituary". The Daily Telegraph. 14 October 2014. Retrieved 21 January 2015.
  3. ISBN 9781134165445. Retrieved 13 February 2015. {{cite book}}: |work= ignored (help
    )

External links
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