Merle Charles Shere

Merle Charles Shere obituary, Freeport, IL

Merle Charles Shere

Merle Shere Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Schwarz Funeral Home - Galena Ave. on Apr. 7, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Merle Charles Shere of Pecatonica, Illinois, passed away on April 6, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on August 3, 1943, in Prophetstown, Illinois, Merle led a life marked by dedication and hard work.
He began his career as a farmer, embracing the demands and rewards of agricultural life. Later, he transitioned into pipeline work, applying the same steadfast ethic to his new profession. Even after retirement, Merle remained active by working with Allied Corp., continuing to contribute meaningfully to his community.
Merle shared a devoted marriage with his wife, Mila, and was the proud father of Paul, Pauline, Wayne, Monica, and Toby. He also held close the memories of his children Kurt, Matthew, and Michelle, who preceded him in death. His legacy continues through his 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
In his earlier years, Merle enjoyed playing softball and the camaraderie it brought. Later in life, he found peace in fishing-a pastime that reflected his appreciation for nature and quiet reflection. Above all else, he cherished time spent with family; these moments were the cornerstone of his happiness.
Merle was also preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Shere and Helen Kellner.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a memorial service to follow, at the Pecatonica American Legion located at 403 Main St. in Pecatonica, Illinois (61063). Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of a life well lived.
May Merles memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of
Merle Charles Shere, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Merle's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Merle Shere's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Merle Shere's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?