Merle M. Douglas, 81, died Saturday at Marion.

He was born Jan. 19, 1933, to Dale and Gladys Harmon Douglas at Yates Center. He was married to Emma Coldin on Sept. 14, 1953, at Iola.

He worked in the oil fields, as a roofer, and retired 11 years ago as foreman of Marion County road and bridge department. His favorite hobby was fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Emma; daughters Donna Ollek of El Dorado, Debbie Budke of Strong City, Pam Chizek of Marion, Cathy Jantzen of Peabody, and Melinda Schroeder of Marion; two brothers, Raymond of California and Leland of Yates Center; 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

There will be private family service at a later date.