George Leonard Merrill, Jr.

George Leonard Merrill, Jr., age 91 of Marysville, passed away Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Cambridge Place Senior Living in Marysville.

He was born on December 9, 1933, in Afton, Kansas, the son of George Leonard, Sr. and Dora Viola (Farrell) Merrill. He graduated from Irving High School in 1951 and served in the United States Army.

On January 20, 1957, he married Violet Rhea Winslow in the Irving Presbyterian Church. She survives of the home.

George was a cowboy and farmer, who cared for the land. His hobbies included fishing, woodworking, camping, hunting and playing cards. He and Violet enjoyed dancing at the Marysville Moose Lodge and he was a member of the Beattie American Legion. George especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Violet Merrill, he is survived by one son, Harry Merrill and significant other Kelly Crook of Bremen; two daughters, Ginger Martin and husband Ted of Blue Rapids, and April Prell and husband David of Bremen; one sister, Helena Lamb of Blue Rapids; 12 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren, and his constant companion, his dog Bella.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, John Merrill, and his great granddaughter, Arianna Martin.

Visitation will be from noon until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville, where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 pm.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Blue Rapids United Methodist Church with Pastor Derek Slack officiating. Music will be furnished by Althea Wertz. Pallbearers will be T.J. Martin, Charoles Martin, Paden Colvin, Jon Gerdes, Josh Roady, and Jacob Beikman. Burial will be in the Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Blue Rapids United Methodist Church, and may be sent in care of Christie-Anderes Funeral Home, at PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.