Ferris Eugene "Gene" Merhish

Early Life and Military Service

Gene was born on December 18, 1939, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Sheffee and Eula Merhish. Raised in Des Moines, his deep sense of duty emerged early. He chose to leave high school to answer the call of service, first joining the Iowa National Guard and later transitioning into the U.S. Navy. He served with honor until his discharge in 1960, earning the rank of Petty Officer Second Class.

His devotion to his country never faded. In 1980, Gene returned to service by joining the U.S. Air Force Reserves. Four years later, he transitioned to the Utah Army National Guard, where he shared his vast technical expertise as an Aircraft Hydraulic and Parts Specialist and Instructor. He ultimately concluded his distinguished military career at the rank of Technical Sergeant. Gene treasured his time in uniform; his profound pride and unwavering patriotism exuded from him every single day of his adult life.

Professional Brilliance and Literary Passion

In his civilian life, Gene beautifully paired his natural engineering mind with a sharp talent for sales. From 1960 to 1967, he excelled as an Application Engineer. He then channeled those skills into an impressive 18-year career in industrial oil field and mechanical sales engineering. Managing a massive territory across the Western United States, Gene lent his expertise to prominent firms including Joy, Gardner-Denver, Unico, Harnischfeger, NPS Supply, and Lockheed.

Later in life, Gene embarked on an equally fulfilling career as an author. He poured his extensive wisdom, creativity, and life experiences onto the page, authoring and publishing six books. Driven by a deep feeling that he had so much left to pass on to the world, he proudly completed his seventh and final book just before his passing.

A Life Well-Lived

Gene was a man of vibrant passions. In his spare time, he was a true outdoorsman and gun enthusiast who loved collecting firearms, hunting, and exploring nature while riding his four-wheel-drive ATV.

Gene was blessed with a beautiful, blended family. In April 1994, he married Bobbie Jingle and lovingly welcomed her two daughters, Brianna and Ashley, into his life. Following Bobbie’s passing in 2017, Gene found love once more. On October 25, 2019, he married Mary Stevenson, embracing her two adult children as his own. To his family and friends, Gene will forever be remembered as a true patriot, a fearless warrior, a dedicated craftsman, a man who fixed everything with duct tape and an inspiring author.

Family and Legacy

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Sheffee and Eula Merhish, and his beloved wife, Bobbie.

He leaves behind a rich legacy and is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his stepchildren, Scott, Sheryl, Brianna and Ashley; his cherished step-grandchildren, Ryan, Ashley, Ilana, Erin, Anna, Bryce, and Kyra and his step-great-granddaughter,Lennon.

A committal service for Gene will take place on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 10:15am at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery located at 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy Dallas, TX 75211. All guests are to line up in lane 2 by 10am.