Merlin was born to Herman and Olga Derman on February 11, 1936 in Leigh, Nebraska and Nebraska is where he grew up. Merlin served in the Air Force for 4 years in the Air Police. In 1959, he met the love of his life, Bernice, and they married in July of 1960. They later moved to Fort Collins, Colorado in 1979. They loved to travel together and Merlin enjoyed old westerns and country music. He spent time with his family doing many projects. Merlin was a good Christian and faithful member of Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Marlyn and Alvin; sisters, Delores and Eileen; son, Richard; and grandson, Christopher.
He is survived by his wife, Bernice; sons, Darrell (Peggy) and Robert (Shantel); grandson, Jeff; granddaughter, Sheila; great grandson, Samuel; brother, Victor; sister, Lois Bone; and many nephews, nieces, and friends.
Merlin worked at Poudre Valley Co-Op for over 20 years and retired in 2001. He then worked in Poudre Schools for 5 years.
The family wishes to thank all the doctors and nurses who took care of him.
A Celebration of Life will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at the Church of Christ in Windsor, CO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mountain States Children’s Home in Longmont, CO.
