Merle L. Grate age 80 of Marion, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday August 18, 2015 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
He was born September 14, 1934 in Clarksburg, Ohio to the late Lorin and Gladys Ruth (Walker) Grate.
On July 31, 1957 he married Evelyn M. Holcomb and she survives him.
Merle was retired from Conrail and was also a U.S. Navy Veteran. He was a thirteen gallon blood donor and acheived the Pilgrim Degree from the Marion Moose Lodge # 889.
Besides his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Merle is survived by two daughters; Sandy Gruber of Caledonia, Ohio, Linda Holcomb of Marion, Ohio, and a special daughter-in-law, Sharon Miller of Marion, Ohio, three grandchildren; Andrea, Amanda, Kyle, and three great grandchildren; Kynleigh, Kysin, and Ryker, as well as two step-grandchildren; Robin and family, and B.J. There is also a sister and a brother surviving; Audrey (Don) Stump of Marion, Ohio and Robert Grate of Pa., and a sister-in-law Gertrude Jackson. Numerous nieces and nephews survive as well.
Besides his parents, Merle was preceded in death by three sons; Larry, Steven, and Gary Grate, and a grandson, and a brother LeRoy Grate.
There will be a Graveside Service with burial to follow on Saturday August 22, 2015 at 10:30 A.M. at the Marion Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Rev. Bill McCoy. There will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Heartland Hospice or the Wounded Warrior’s Project, 4899 Belford Rd., Suite 300, Jacksonville, Fla., 32286. On line condolences to the family can be made at www.boydbornfuneralhome.com.
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