Much-loved father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away on February 22, 2021. He lived a wonderful and full life, sharing many happy times with family and friends. Merle was one of the "lucky ones". Always cheerful, always there to give good advice, always enjoyed life to the fullest.

Born in Lizton Indiana on April 2, 1930 and was the youngest of four children born to Norman and Mary (Blessing) Smith. He had two brothers, Russell and Norman Robert and one sister Arlene, all who predeceased him. He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth "Libby" Luster on October 7, 1950, and shared a wonderful life together until her death in 2004. After Merle's military service in the Army, he returned to Crawfordsville, where he and Libby raised their two children.  He worked for MidStates Steel & Wire for a short time, and later joined the Ben Hur Life Insurance Company, retiring in 1992. He and Libby spent many years wintering in Florida, was an active member at the Crawfordsville Country Club, and the family treasures the many woodworking projects Merle created over the years.

Survivors include one son Roger W Smith (Jean) of Indianapolis and one daughter Cheryl Smith of Crawfordsville. Merle has three grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Family members knew Merle as "Uncle Putt" because of his great love of golfing.