David Burr Merritt

1959 and proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. Following an honorable discharge, he met the

love of his life, Susie Oaks, and the two were married in Terre Haute, Indiana. They went on to share

63 wonderful years of marriage. In the winter of 1980, Dave officially became a Texan, a place he

would proudly call home for the rest of his life. Dave owned and operated Dave’s Asphalt Paving for

many years, building not just roads but a legacy of hard work and dedication. He was happiest when

working alongside his grandson, Little John. In his younger years, he enjoyed attending horse shows,

drag racing, and was a proud member of the Moose Lodge. Dave’s family recalls many cherished

memories with him. His daughter enjoyed working by his side and always appreciated his antics. His

son shared a passion for showing horses with him, while Susie loved “all of it,” treasuring every

moment of their life together. She will especially miss their daily trips to Walmart for maple donuts — a

simple ritual that meant so much. His granddaughter, Shelby, remembers playing bingo with him while

growing up — and how he always seemed to have the best luck. His grandson, Johnny, treasures all

the years he spent working alongside him and all the crazy things that happened along the way. He

was best known for his devotion to his family, his steady presence, and his signature look — a cowboy

hat and pearl snap shirt that became his trademark. Dave was preceded in death by his father, Herbert

Marcus Merritt; brothers Chauncey Wallace Merritt and Douglas Harlan Merritt; and his sister, Amy

Jean Merritt. He is survived by his beloved mother, Elizabeth Catherine Wolf Merritt; his wife of 63

years, Susie Merritt; his children, Ruthann Elizabeth Brooke (John) and David Burr Merritt Jr.;

grandchildren, John Charles Brooke VI (Randi) and Shelby Lynn Brooke Gillihan (Taylor); and

great-grandchildren, Reese Lynn Brooke and eagerly awaited John Charles Brooke VII. He is also

survived by his sisters, Helen Mary Merritt Turner and Juanita Snyder (Mathew). Dave’s life was

defined by his love for his family, his work ethic, and his unwavering faith. His memory will live on in the

hearts of all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 5:00

p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel in Corpus Christi, Texas. Funeral services will follow on

Monday, September 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Funeraria Del Angel in Corpus Christi, Texas, with

graveside services at 1:00 p.m. at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery. The family welcomes

flowers as a tribute to Dave’s memory.