Merle Metcalf

Merle S. Metcalf passed away in Chadron NE on August thirty first of twenty fourteen. His wife of sixty six years, Shirley Porter Metcalf was at his side. Merle was born on June fourth of nineteen twenty seven to Leon and Ina Metcalf. He was their second son. Merle spent his earliest years "In the timber" north of Hay Springs on what is now Metcalf State Game Reserve. When Merle was a young teenager he moved with his family to a ranch 8 miles south of Hay Springs. He attended Banner School and graduated from Hay Springs high school in nineteen forty four. Merle met Shirley Anne Porter on a trip to Arizona to visit a friend who had joined the navy. They were married in nineteen forty eight. They raised a daughter and a son on the ranch. Merle spent fifty four years in the cattle business, increasing the pastureland, enlarging the cow herd and developing irrigated farmland. In later years Merle and Shirley spent the winter months in Arizona, those where some of the happiest years of his life. He was able to spend time perfecting his turquoise and silver jewelry making. At the time of his retirement Merle and Shirley lived in Rushville NE for eight years. Later in time of declining health they moved to Prairie Pines in Chadron NE. Merle is survived by his wife Shirley, brother Neamon Metcalf of Hay Springs, daughter Judy Standley of Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, son Tyler Metcalf, daughter in-law Pama Metcalf of Hay Springs, Nephew and wife Calvin and Rhonda Metcalf of Hay Springs, three grand children Laura Standley of Kingston PA, Nathan Standley of Clarks Summit PA, Michaela Metcalf of Chadron NE, and one great grandchild Emma Standley of Clarks Summit. He was preceded in death by his son in law James L. Standley III and his sister in law Mary Metcalf. A memorial has been established for the Hay Springs Fire Department. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary, PO Box 443, Hay Springs, NE 69347.

Service:

Friday, September 5, 2014 ~ 10:00 AM

United Methodist Church ~ Hay Springs, Nebraska