Merle Ray Friesen

Merle Ray Friesen (1947–2025)

On September 28, 2025, Jesus called His faithful servant Merle Ray Friesen (78) home.

Merle was born on April 18, 1947, at Harms Memorial Hospital in American Falls, Idaho, to Katherine Peters Friesen and Edwin Friesen. He was raised in American Falls where his father farmed.

Merle attended American Falls High School, followed by two years at Bethel College, before transferring to Idaho State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business management. While attending ISU, Merle married the love of his life and college sweetheart, Marsha Hoffer, on August 18, 1968.

Following graduation, Merle and Marsha began their life together in a small, single-wide mobile home on the family farm, where Merle worked alongside his father, raising potatoes and grain and carrying on the family’s farming legacy. In 1997,Merle transitioned to a rotational dairy cattle grazing operation,where he, along with his son Jared, managed an average of 750 cattle on 150 acres until 2015. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a Pop-A-Lock franchise in the greater Salt Lake area in 2006, further showcasing his adaptability and drive.

Merle was deeply engaged in the American Falls community and served many years on the American Falls Fire Commission. He also served with Gideon’s International for many years.

As a passionate advocate for Christian education, Merle co-founded Trinity Christian School in American Falls in 1985, ensuring a faith-based education for his children and others. His steadfast support continued as he served on the school’s board until his retirement in spring 2025, leaving an enduring impact on the community.

Merle loved serving the Lord. In 2014, Merle and Marsha embarked on a Christian mission to Uganda with All Things Phil 4:13 Ministries. The trip was a cherished memory and exemplified Merle’s commitment to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, a faith that guided every aspect of his life.

Merle’s greatest treasure was his family. He was blessed to spend 57 years married to Marsha. Together they raised three children—Kimberly (Russell) Ruff, Jared (Pilar) Friesen, and Mica (Richard) Leisy. Merle instilled in them values of integrity, diligence, compassion, and a love for the Lord. He delighted in his role as grandfather to Tanner and Wyatt (Brittany) Ruff, Tyler and Logan Friesen, Kolter, Paige, and Kate Leisy, and great-grandfather to Levi and Titus Ruff, bringing joy to their lives with his warmth and playful humor.

Merle’s quick wit, infectious laughter, and generous, compassionate heart touched all who knew him. His playful teasing and kind spirit made him a cherished figure among friends, family, and his church community, ensuring his legacy of love and faithfulness will endure.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Katherine Friesen, and is survived by his wife, Marsha; his sister, Barbara (Don) Enns; his children, Kimberly (Russell) Ruff, Jared (Pilar) Friesen, and Mica (Richard) Leisy; his grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be from 6:00–8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, at Davis-Rose Funeral Home in American Falls. A second visitation will be on Saturday, October 4, from 10:00-10:45 a.m. at the Aberdeen First Mennonite Church. The funeral will follow at 11:00 a.m. followed by the interment at Homestead Cemetery, after which everyone is invited to share a meal at the Aberdeen First Mennonite Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Trinity Christian School, a cause dear to Merle’s heart, to honor his legacy of faith and education. Contributions can be made at trinitychristianidaho.com/donate.