Charles Ray Merritt

- October 13, 2011 Charles (Chuck) Ray Merritt, born July 16, 1928 to Opal and Olan Merritt in Enid, Oklahoma. The family moved to San Diego where he graduated high school and joined the United States Navy at 17. He was active in WWII then called back to duty in the Korean War. Chuck returned home safe and sound in 1946 only to meet the love of his life Dorthy Collins in Long Beach, CA. There they were married and the ravishing and romantic adventure would take its course for the next 63 years. Chuck began his career as a roughneck in 1949 on Signal Hill, the LBOD & Terminal Islands. In 1953 he headed to the Huntington Beach Boom where he started his directional drilling engineering career. He is a true icon and legend in the oil industry. He became a Mason in 1956 and member of the Long Beach Petroleum Club. Then in 1974 he moved his wife and three children to Bakersfield. He fervently enjoyed traveling with his wife and socializing. Golf, fishing, hunting, cards and RVing were among the few of Chuck's choices, however, albacore fishing was his passion. Both fun and lazy days were spent on the Colorado River through a decade as well. Chuck was a remarkable man who loved and provided for his family unconditionally. He was a man of integrity, character and perseverance. Undoubtedly Chuck was the rock and backbone of the Merritt family. He was kind, generous and quick-witted. He had a hilarious sense of humor and was always ready to contradict the discouraged with encouragement or a joke. Chuck had many friends and acquaintances because he truly was good time Charley. Chuck fought a courageous battle with cancer the last two years of his life. Being the sole child of Opal and Olan, Chuck leaves behind a huge legacy of family that includes his loving wife, Dorthy; son, Mike and daughter-in-law Karla; daughter, Melanie Coleman; son, David and daughter-in-law, Debbie; 13 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandson. The memories, adventures and love Chuck has shared with us all is embedded deep in our hearts and will forever be remembered. We will miss him tremendously, but never forget him. Goodbye for now, but not forever. The family gives special thanks to CBCC and Optimal Hospice for the outstanding care and compassion given to Chuck our loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend through this difficult time. Also a big thank you to our close friends and neighbors for the thoughtful flowers, food and support. A Chapel service will be held on Thursday, October 20th, 11:00 a.m., at Hillcrest Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to CBCC, 6501 Truxtun Ave.