"My husband and I would like to convey our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of your beloved Merrill. We would like to share with you something that has brought us much comfort at a similar time in our lives. John 11:14-44 shares with us the experience of Jesus resurrecting Lazarus here on earth before the very eyes of those he loved. We can only imagine the tears of joy when we too are reunited with our dear loved ones. (John 5:28,29) Merrill will surely be missed by many of those who's lives he shared, remember the experiences you shared together and learn from them, hold them close to your heart and cherish them. May you find comfort from those who surround you at this very difficult time. Our sincere condolences to all of you. "
In loving memory of
Merrill J. Houser
December 21, 2010
Merrill Jacob Houser, one of five children of Jacob Henry Houser and Sarah Viola (Frain) Houser, was born at his parents' farm home near Macedonia, Iowa on October 15, 1917. Merrill grew up in the Macedonia area where he attended No. 8 country school. In 1929, the stock market crashed and his family experienced the Great Depression. Merrill graduated from the Macedonia Consolidated School in 1935. Following school, he continued to help his dad on the farm, and also took an electronics course by mail to further his education.
On June 8, 1941, Merrill and Marilynn Eileen Henry were married in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Merrill was drafted into the US Army and served in Europe during WWII. Following the service, Merrill opened an electrical repair shop in Macedonia and he and Marilynn eventually settled on his parents' farm. They were blessed with five sons, Hubert Merrill, Darrell Henry, Kent Jacob, Melvyn James, and Lewis Lynn.
Merrill enjoyed spending time with family and loved to fly the Cessna Sky Hawk he and his friends owned. In 2010, Merrill moved to the Oakland Manor in Oakland, Iowa.
Merrill and Marilynn had been married 69 years when Merrill died at the Manor on December 21, 2010, at the age of 93 years, 2 months, and 6 days. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Lawrence W. Houser, Lyle V. Houser and wife Marie; sister Lura Armstrong and husband Guy; and brother-in-law Leo Carroll.
Merrill is survived by his wife Marilynn Houser of Carson; sons, Senator Hubert Houser and wife Paula, Darrell Houser and wife Marsha, and Melvyn Houser and wife LaRue, all of Carson, Kent Houser and wife Marlene of Wichita, KS; and Lewis Houser and wife Joan of Henderson, IA; sister Glada Carroll of Des Moines, IA; 16 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
A memorial fund has been established.
Tributes
"So sorry for your loss. The great memories you have eventually replace the sadness you feel now. We are thinking of you."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. You have lots of fond memories to share with friends and family."
"Paula and Hubert,so sorry for your loss."
"Our sympathy to your family at the passing of your father. May the sharing of memories bring you comfort."
"I am sorry to learn about the death of Merrill J. Houser. This must have been a difficult time for all. Therefore, I am forwarding scripture to bring solace. Please, read the following scriptures: James 4:14, John 6:35-40, 44 and John 11:25, 26."
"Darrell and family, We are so sorry for your loss. It is hard anytime of the year but even more so during this holiday season. God Bless."
"We are very sorry for your loss. Red and Dad were very close friends and business partners. Our prayers to all the family."
"Hugh, Thinking of you and your brothers at this time. Our thougts and prayers are with you. Byron & Konnie"
"I have many fond memories of merril and my dad--aunt vi and uncle jake and marily. i thought she was a great lady to have all those boys. my thoughts and prayers are with all the family."