Okemos, Michigan
Born October 9, 1925, passed away February 25, 2014 at the Age of 88.
Merlin was preceded in death by parents Stanley Johnson and Mabel Chase-Johnson, sister, Joyce Elsesser, and grandson Michael Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife of more than 66 years, Mary Lou, two sisters, four sons, two daughters in-law, seven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.
Merlin left High School at age 17 to proudly serve his country during World War II as a B-17 Flying Fortress tail-gunner, flying thirty-three missions in the European Theater. Upon his return from Europe, Merlin continued his schooling and graduated from Michigan State University with a Geology degree in 1947.
As a petroleum geologist, Merlin made numerous major oil and gas discoveries in Michigan, Indiana and Oklahoma, and developed and managed underground storage resources critical to the Oil and Gas industries. His distinguished career included senior positions at Gulf Oil, Michigan Consolidated Gas, American Natural Resources, Michigan/Wisconsin Pipeline and Dart Energy. Merlin also served as chairman of the Michigan Oil and Gas Advisory Board, and was past President of the Michigan Basin Geological Society.
Upon retirement, Merlin found time for hobbies such as restoring and refinishing antique furniture, golfing, fishing, steam-trains, and painting. Most of all, he enjoyed time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.
We will all remember his clever wit, wise anecdotes, caring nature, sense of humor and Lief Erickson stories...
A Memorial Service will be held at The Peoples Church, 200 W. Grand River Ave., East Lansing on Saturday, March 1, 2014 at 11:00am. Visitation will be held at the church at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Peoples Church of East Lansing in Merlin’s memory.
The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.
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