Merle was born November 29, 1923 in Quincy, Illinois, the eldest of six children of Ralph and Ursula McLaughlin. He passed in Edmonds, Washington on July 12, 2015. He leaves his sons, Gary (Gwen) and Robert (Vicki),
and grandchildren, Tara, Hollee, Ryan and Kiri and their families. He was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Bakken, in 2001 and his wife, Carolyn Elmendorf in 2014.
Merle served in the U.S Army during World War II. His hope was to visit the WW II memorial in Washington DC this autumn, but his health declined prior to achieving this goal.
Dad will be remembered for his love of Amateur Radio, automobiles, airplanes and boats and numerous stories of his experiences. He was quite proud to have contacted all countries around the world via amateur radio, and proudly displayed his awards and plaques.
His retirement years were spent traveling with his RV and Joyce to Arizona, and later auto road trips to the midwest with Carolyn.
Sincere appreciation to Providence Hospice and Home Care of Snohomish County, to whom memorials may be made. Dad resolutely appreciated the kindness with which he could have his decisions honored with dignity.
Private family graveside service will be held at Purdy and Walters at Floral Hills, Lynnwood, WA on Saturday, August 8th at 11:30 AM.
