For 10 years every day after work, Merle worked for hours building his own Cessna, which he flew for 22 years. You now can find his plane at the Sun 'N Fun Air Museum in Lakeland, FL. He also was a 63 year member of the Masons, Lodge #147 in Sarasota.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Beverley; loving children, Michael J. Lilly of Houston, TX and Patricia J. Schuster of New Orleans, LA and three cherished grandchildren and several great and great great grandchildren.
Interment will take place at 9 AM on Fri. Jul. 21, 2017 at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34232.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to TideWell Hospice, 5957 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238.
