Merrill graduated from Forman High School. He then attended the University of Illinois where he was a member of the fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho and graduated with a bachelor’s degree. He later served our grateful nation by joining the United States Air Force where he became a captain at a young age. He was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Petersburg. He worked for MAPCO, a fertilizer and oil company, in Athens, Illinois, and then Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he was an executive. He was also a farmer for many years in the Forest City and Havana area.
Merrill is survived by his children, Derek (Sally) Dierker, Lance Dierker and Debra (Mark) Richardson; his grandchildren, Jonathan Stevens, Samantha Stevens, Julia Dierker, Seth Dierker, Hope Dierker and Noah Dierker; his great grandchildren, Ilya and Atlas Dierker; his sister, Luellen (Bob) Betzelberger; a sister-in-law, Jane Dierker; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce (nee Wilson) Dierker; his parents; and his brother, Lendell Dierker.
A private family graveside service will be held at Allens Grove Cemetery near San Jose, Illinois, with Pastor Jeffrey Gross officiating. Military rites will be performed by the American Legion Post 138 and the VFW Post 6408 at the cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Fulton County, 22988 IL-9, Canton, Illinois 61520.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is assisting Merrill’s family with arrangements. Please visit Merrill’s online obituary at hurleyfh.com.
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