Frank E Merrill

Frank E. Merrill, the son of Lillie May (Simpson) and Marquis T. Merrill, was born August 12, 1927 south of Red Cloud, Nebraska in Webster county. He departed this life on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at the Mary Lanning Hospital in Hastings, Nebraska at the age of 91 years, 11 months and 25 days.

Frank grew up on the farm south of Red Cloud and received his formal education attending the Red Cloud schools, graduating with the class of 1944. He remained on the farm to work until 1948, when he moved to Colorado where he pursued a number of different jobs. Frank enlisted in the United States Army to serve his country on September 21, 1950 and was honorably discharged from duty on September 21, 1952.

He was united in marriage with Gwendolyn I. Monson on June 19, 1954 at Kearney, Nebraska. This union was blessed with four children, David Mark, Brenda Joy, Harvey Gene and Byron John. In 1950, Frank began his employment with Burlington Northern Railroad and retired as a Depot Agent on November 30, 1989 after 39 years of service.

In their retirement years Frank and Gwen enjoyed traveling and spending time with their family. Gwen preceded Frank in death on July 1, 2009. Frank was always actively involved in his community. He was a member of the Juniata United Methodist Church, he was active with the American Legion and earlier in life he had volunteered his time with the Boy Scouts. He was proudly a founding member of ARC in Hastings and Grand Island. He was a past member of the Juniata Village Board and for many years travelled and participated in horseshoe tournaments. He also enjoyed gardening, fishing and hunting in his spare time.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Gwen; his daughter, Brenda, on January 18, 2009; two sisters, Maleta McCormick and Opal Bliss; and brothers, Cecil and Harvey Merrill.

Left to treasure his memory are his sons, David Merrill and wife Sue of Lincoln, Nebraska; Harvey Merrill and wife Deb of York, Nebraska and Byron Merrill and wife Lisa of Lincoln, Nebraska; 7 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were Monday, 11:00 a.m., August 12, 2019 at the Juniata United Methodist Church with Pastor Kathy Uldrich officiating. Interment with military honors was at the Red Cloud Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Juniata United Methodist Church.

Williams Funeral Home
241 West 4th Avenue
Red Cloud, Nebraska  68970

Ph 402-746-2500
williamsfuneralhomes@yahoo.com

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