He was the head instructor and program director for the Martial Arts Program at the YMCA from 1970-1994 as well as the summer Judo Programs at Camp Carson in Princeton, IN. Merlin was the staff teacher for the Judo Program at UE from 1976-1990 and was the Indiana State Judo Coach for several years in the 1970’s. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1955-1961, the Navy Reserves until 1992 and the U.S. Army Reserves from 1992-1994. Merlin worked for the City of Evansville for over 30 years, retiring as the Director of Code Enforcement. He was a loving husband, father, and Grandad who was very devoted to his family.
In addition to his parents, Merlin was preceded in death by two brothers, Dale Morris and Vernon Morris; three sisters, Edith Launius, Irene Hendrix and Anna Lee Morris; and an infant son, David.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jessie Colleen (Newman) Morris; sons, Timothy E. Morris and Gary W. Morris (Dee) both of Evansville; daughter, Julie C. Morris of Evansville; grandchildren, Jarred T. Morris, Justin A. Morris, Nicolette A. Bland, Nicolas A. Bland, Alexander Bland, Jacob E. Morris and Danielle E. Morris.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 14, 2019 at Alexander East Chapel with burial to follow at Alexander Memorial Park. Friends may visit on Friday 4-7pm and Saturday 10am until service time at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 700 N. Weinbach Ave, Evansville, IN 47711.
