Merle E. Tinkle, 88, Sweetser, died in Marion General Hospital at 2:07 p.m. on Sunday, April 9, 2017. He was born in Grant County, Indiana, to the late Ova and Ethel (Hawkins) Tinkle and married Mary Jane Tinkle on March 11, 1967. She preceded him in death on November 16, 2009.
Merle was a veteran of the United States Army during the Korean War and achieved the rank of Corporal. He was proudly awarded the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. Merle was a member of the American Legion, AMVETS, Pleasant Township Fire Department, Medic 11, and RCA Sympathy Club and Dana Sympathy Club. He retired from Dana Corp. in Marion after 34 ½ years of service. Merle was one of the four founding members of the Grant County Fire Investigation team and was always looking for opportunities to take classes and further his knowledge of fire science. Merle farmed with his father in his younger years and enjoyed his memories of the time he spent on the family farm. He loved camping and traveling, especially his trips to U.S. historical sites. He loved spending many of his winters in Rio Grande Valley, Mission, Texas.
He is survived by his children, Jay (Berta) Tinkle, Marion, Michelle Tinkle, Marion, and Linda Jane (late Winfrey) Sluder, Hartford City; sister, June (late Dick) Stout, Upland; granddaughter, Lori L. (Tom) Lawson, Marion; great-granddaughter, Jaycee Lawson, Marion; sister-in-law, Rena Tinkle, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife of 42 years, Mary Jane; brothers, Verlin (Rena) Tinkle, Mervin (Bonnie) Tinkle, and Basil (Jane) Tinkle; sister, Deloris (Willy) Messersmith; and several friends.
The family will receive visitors from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion.
Services to celebrate Merle’s life are at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 13, 2017, at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Tom Mansbarger officiating. Burial will follow at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Pleasant Township Fire Department, 208 West Delphi, Sweetser, IN 46987.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.