Merlin O. Denney, 85, of Warren and formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away Sunday evening June 4, 2023 at Heritage Pointe in Warren. Merlin had worked for over 35 years as a Field Engineer for National Cash Register in Fort Wayne. He later worked for Kyle Lund Farms in Markle for several years until his retirement. Merlin was a 1956 graduate of Lafayette Central High School. He was longtime member of the Markle Church of Christ, where he served as a Deacon and had served in attendance counting and setting up for communion each Sunday. Merlin loved sports and was an excellent basketball player. He was the first high school player in Allen County to score 1,000 points in his career. Merlin loved to farm over the years, mowing his yard, and tinkering around the property.
He was born on July 7, 1937 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the son of the late Othel and Berneice (Smith) Denney.
He was united in marriage to Judith E. Somers on October 18, 1957. Judy preceded him in death on March 5, 2019.
Survivors include two sons: Jon (Sue) Denney of San Carlos, CA, Darren (Angela) Denney of Fort Wayne; a daughter: Debbie (Mark) Troyer of Findlay, OH; three brothers: Robert (Linda) Denney of Fort Wayne, Roland (Maryalice) Denney of Markle, and Donald (Bonnie) Denney of New Haven; 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Richard Denney.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Lund Farms, 604 N. 500 E., Markle, Indiana.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. following the visitation at Lund Farms, 604 N. 500 E., Markle, Indiana, with Darryl Denney officiating.
Interment will take place at a later date in the Hoverstock Cemetery in Zanesville.
Memorial donations can be made out to the Markle Church of Christ, sent in care of Myers Funeral Home, P.O. Box 403, Markle, IN 46770.
