Source: News Journal

Herschel Don Merritt (1918-2007)

Herschel Don Merritt, 88, of North Manchester, Indiana, died Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 4:15am at Oakbrook Village in Huntington. He was born October 4, 1918 in Miami County, Indiana to Ernest and Jessie (Shaw) Merritt.

He married Mary Ellen Burkhart in St. Joseph, Michigan on May 26, 1938; she died May 16, 1996. Herschel was a 1937 Chester High School graduate. He worked for Burkhart Poultry and Eggs until 1967 when it sold to Scarborough Produce in Huntington. He then worked for Ford Meter Box in Wabash from 1973-1983. After retirement Herschel worked for Shepherd's Chevrolet & Cadillac in North Manchester. He was a member of the Congregational Christian Church in North Manchester and enjoyed woodworking and making clocks. He lived in North Manchester since 1932.

He is survived by his son, Karl (Bonnie Dee) Merritt of North Manchester; four daughters, Donna Merritt of Indianapolis, Martha (Vern) Pursifull of Huntington, Becky Merritt of Warsaw, and Beth Merritt of Ligonier; two sisters, Shirley Kauffman of Seattle, Washington, and Beverly (Robert) Yentes of Merced, California; 11 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Julie Kent Merritt, one sister, and five brothers.

Memorial services will be held at Congregational Christian Church on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at 2:00pm with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be in Oaklawn Cemetery. Friends may call 12-2pm Tuesday at the church. Grandstaff-Hentgen Bender Chapel of North Manchester is in charge of arrangements.