Merle relocated to Omaha and finally Lincoln where he resided until his death. He worked at Norden Laboratories, which eventually became Pfizer Animal Health. He was the Central Services Supervisor when he retired after 35 years in 2004. He enjoyed and was proud of his long career that began at Norden Labs.
Merle and Pat met in December, 1973, and were married on April 17, 1976. Theirs was a loving marriage for almost 48 years and were blessed with an incredible family. They shared three daughters – Belinda, Kim and Jess. They built a life filled with friends, fun and many happy memories. Merle loved his role of grandpa and was excited when he became a great-grandpa in November, 2023, with Kohen’s birth.
Merle was involved with Sesostris Shrine and the Sowers Club of Lincoln. He was active with work softball, bowling and golf leagues, played 40+ years on a pool league, and loved most any card game. He loved the game of golf and after retired played at least 4 times a week. He enjoyed joining friends at Johnson Lake and going on many golf trips.
Merle was a kind, caring and generous person. He never met a person that didn’t become a friend. His sense of humor brought a smile to anyone who knew him. He always showed love and respect for everyone. He fought the good fight against cancer and will always be in our hearts.
He is survived by his loving wife, Pat, and children Belinda (Mark) Burrier, Conway, AR; Kimberly (Zach) Krzycki, Lincoln, NE; and Jessica (Jeff) Orlouski, Greenwood Lake NY. Grandchildren: Kaitlyn Blount, Conway, AR, Madison Blount, Conway, AR, Ashlyn Eveland, Arvada, CO, Christian Eveland, Lincoln, NE, and Alexandra Orlouski, Greenwood Lake NY; great-grandson Kohen Blount, Conway, AR.
Merle was preceeded in death by his parents, Merle and Ruthella Derry, Sylvia and Mark Wallner, grandson Parker Blount, brother-in-laws Harold Jones, Dennis Gillispie, and Roger Vedder.
Memorial service: 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 11, 2024, Christ United Methodist Church, 4530 A. Street, Lincoln.
Visitation will be Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Roper and Sons Midtown Chapel, 4300 ‘O’ Street.