Merle Mergell

1930 - 2010

November 18, 1930 - November 3, 2010

Merle Mergell, a lifelong resident of the South Bay and former mayor of the city of Inglewood, passed away on Wednesday, November 3, 2010 in Gardena. Born in Los Angeles, CA, Merle was 79 when he died. Merle was an Air Force fighter pilot proudly serving the United States during the Korean conflict until his honorable discharge in 1956. He was a multi-year member of the VFW, and an over 50-year member of the American Legion. Merle was a graduate of Washington High School, and a graduate of the University of Southern California, holding a degree in business administration. (He remained passionate about USC football through the years!). He opened a prosperous insurance agency in the city of Inglewood. His commitment to the Inglewood community was strengthened in 1967 when he was elected councilman. He was elected mayor in 1971. During his tenure, Inglewood City Hall, Parking Structure One and Fire Station No. 1 were constructed. Following a successful political career, Merle went into semi-retirement, buying, renovating and selling property. Merle returned to service at the city of Inglewood in 1989 as a special enforcement officer, instrumental in the development and supervision of the "Bike Brigade". This famed unit was responsible for hiring and training Inglewood youth whose primary responsibility was to issue revenue producing parking citations in the downtown area. Merle was honored in 1998 for his numerous contributions, loyalty and years of service to the residents of the Inglewood community. Merle is survived by his wife of 13 years, Charlotte "Brandy" Mergell of Inglewood, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian and William Mergell. The memorial service and celebration of Merle's life will be held at the American Legion Post #314, 14142 Prairie Avenue in Hawthorne (310) 675-1313 on Saturday, November 20, 2010 from 2 to 5pm. Attire is casual. In lieu of flowers, a donation, in Merle's honor, may be made to the Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation, USC (uscnorriscancer.usc.edu); USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Office of Development, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Room #8302, Los Angeles, CA 90033. Please use the mortuary website, www.lafuneral.com, to send the family messages, share memories, or to obtain directions to the services.