Ronald E. Merrill Sr

Ronald Eugene Merrill Sr., age 81, of Osceola, passed away January 19, 2016 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka. Ron was born December 4, 1934 in South Bend Indiana to the late Herbert E. and Marion G (Jenkins) Merrill. Ron enlisted in the US Army in July of 1957, and was honorably discharged in 1959. A true Patriot, Ron spent time visiting with other Veterans and donating to the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Surviving are his children Cindy Lewis and Ronald Merrill Jr. both of Mishawaka, and Karyn Merrill of Osceola. Ron is also survived by his sister Delores (Paul) Allison of Mishawaka and seven grandchildren; Nicholas, Shauna, Trenton and Jennifer Merrill, Brandy and Michael Boots, and Christopher Lewis. Surviving as well is his close friend Elizabeth Phelps and several nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jack Merrill.
Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the 7:00 pm funeral service on Monday, January 25, 2016 at Zimmerman-Inman Funeral Home in Osceola. Interment will be private at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, South Bend.
Ron was employed for many years as a skilled machinist at Dodge Manufacturing in Mishawaka before retiring in 1984. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing shuffleboard and euchre, and was an avid fan of Notre Dame Football and Basketball. He was also quite athletic in his time, playing softball, shooting pool, throwing darts, and bowling in leagues throughout the area. A proud man of Native American heritage, Ron also enjoyed donating to the various Indiana Reservations to help those in need. He also attended Osceola United Methodist Church, and was quite fond of his dog, “Lammy”
In his memory, donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.