Merrill Dallas Wetherington

Born on October 22, 1931 in Miami, FL, to parents Dallas & Blanche Wetherington. Graduated from Miami High School Class of ’49 where he excelled in sports and played on the State Championship team in Basketball. Attended University of Florida where he continued Basketball and was named Captain of the team.

He served on the Miami Fire Department until joining the Air Force where he attained rank of Captain and dropped paratroopers from his C-46 during the Korean War.

He continued flying in the Air Force Reserves and commercially for Riddle Airlines, Airlift International, National Airlines and United Airlines where he retired as a Captain with 27+ years in 1991. He dearly loved the Boeing 727 that he flew 16,000 hours on.

He was a member of the University of Florida Gator Club, the United Airlines Retiree Association, former member of the Elks Club and Port Saint Lucie Yacht Club where he enjoyed boating, dancing and socializing. He was an avid fisherman and was awarded recognition for a record sailfish catch. He loved teaching his children and grandchildren what he knew about the sport.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Mary Kay, Daughter, Sharon (Michael) Morgan of St. Petersburg, FL, Sons, Kevin (Amy) Wetherington of Denver, CO, and Brian (Nakia) Wetherington of Boynton Beach, FL; grandchildren, Hailie & Malorie Morgan, Matthew & Kyle Wetherington, and Brice & Kyla Wetherington, and his sister Elinor (Ted) of Orange Park, FL.

Granting his wishes, a private family memorial is planned.

In his memory, donations can be made to The Alzheimer’s Association of Stuart, and Treasure Coast Hospice. Both organizations can be commended for their wonderful compassionate care.