Merle Kirchhoff

Merle Kirchhoff, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Independence, Missouri, on September 3, 2025, surrounded by love. He was 81 years old. Born on August 25, 1944, in Sweet Springs, Missouri, Merle's spirit and dedication marked every facet of his life.

Merle grew up on a farm near Ernestville, Missouri, and graduated from Concordia High School in Concordia, Missouri. On May 2, 1970, Merle married the love of his life, Lily Jane Shinn at Mount Zion Church. They were blessed with a daughter, Angela Dawn, in 1972, and a son, Aaron Dean, in 1975. They lived most of their married life in Independence, Missouri. They were happily married for over 55 years.

Merle's career spanned several decades, during which he worked for Navajo Freight Lines and the Egg Basket Company. He spent 30 years as a warehouseman at Associated Wholesale Grocers in Kansas City, and after his retirement, he dedicated another 20 years to the Royal Meadows Golf Course in Kansas City, Missouri. An avid golfer, he achieved the remarkable feat of hitting three holes in one, with his last coming during the final game of golf he played in November 2019 — a testament to his love for the sport.

Merle’s commitment extended beyond work and family; he devoted himself to his church. He was an active member of Ascension Lutheran Church, serving as an elder and trustee, demonstrating his priority in serving others. Merle read his bible daily and his favorite verses were Proverbs 3:5-6. Known for his dry sense of humor, Merle also enjoyed woodworking, creating beautiful clocks, and took great pleasure in tending to the garden at the farm. He was fond of spending time in the woods where he enjoyed mushroom hunting, fishing, and four-wheeling with family, enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

A devoted family man, his proudest accomplishments were his cherished family. Merle is survived by his loving wife, Lily Jane Kirchhoff; his daughter, Angela Howery, and her husband Kevin; his son, Aaron Kirchhoff; his grandchildren, Erika Sanders and her husband Alex, Craig Howery, Eric and Savanna Mckamey, Jackson and Tara Frisch; and his three great-grandchildren; sister, Ruby Shinn and husband John of Independence, MO; sister-in-law Anna Kirchhoff of rural Concordia, MO; and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Together they created countless memories that will forever be treasured.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Emma Kirchhoff; his sister, Verna Mae Bredehoft; and brothers Delmar, Norbert, and Harold Kirchhoff. Each of them left a profound impact on his life, shaping the kind and generous individual he became.

Merle Kirchhoff will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and faith will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. A visitation will be held at Ascension Lutheran on September 13, 2025, from 9:00 AM until the memorial service at 10:00 AM. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Iconium Cemetery in Osceola, Missouri, at 2:30 PM. Throughout his life, Merle taught us the importance of God, family, service, and living with joy. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, family suggest contributions to be made in Merle's honor to Ascension Lutheran Church or to Iconium Cemetery.