Merrill Boyle

Merrill Boyle, 92, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. 

An Open-House Visitation will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Graveside Service and Military Rites will follow at 3:30 p.m. at McCausland Cemetery. Those attending are invited to gather at the funeral home at 3:00 p.m. to precede to the cemetery together.

Merrill Kenneth Boyle was born on April 15, 1932, in West Liberty, Iowa, to Myron and Dora (Bartenhagen) Boyle. Merrill grew up on a farm near McCausland, Iowa and graduated from DeWitt High School in 1950. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Army and bravely serving in the Korean War. He married Sharon Gustafson on July 22, 1967, in Moline, Illinois. The couple resided in rural Long Grove where they raised their two children. Merrill was a lifelong farmer and also worked as a parts manager for John Deere. 

A man of deep faith, Merrill was a devoted member of Princeton Presbyterian Church, where he found both community and purpose. His kindness, integrity, and unwavering spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Merrill is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon; his children, Michelle Boyle and her husband, David Auerbach, and Stephen Boyle and his wife, Catherine Meier; grandchildren, Ryan, Jessica, and Hope, all of North Texas; siblings, Dolores (Dale) Bergert of Charlotte, Robert (Beverly) Boyle of Knoxville, Tennessee, and Richard Boyle of rural Long Grove; and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister-in-law, Sheryl Boyle. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Marlene Rogers.

Merrill’s legacy of love and service lives on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever cherish the memories they shared.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to McCausland Methodist Church or Camp Courageous. 

Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com

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