Obituary of Merlin-George Clarke

CLARKE, Merlin George It is with great sorrow that the family announces Merlin's passing on October 20, 2009, at Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon. Merlin was born on March 6, 1935, to Fredrick and Emmeline (Hewlitt) Clarke of Netherhill, SK. He attended Muriel and Netherhill Schools and later the School of Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan. In 1962, he married Elda Armstrong of Forgan and together they shared over 46 years of happiness at Netherhill, Kindersley and Saskatoon. Their son Courtney completed their family and has brought much pride and joy. Merlin was a dedicated husband and father, farmer, community worker and volunteer. Though family came first, he enjoyed his work on the St. Paul's Church Board, the Agriculture Committee, the Kindersley Home Care Board and especially his work as Area Representative and Provincial Chair for the International Agricultural Exchange Association as well as acting in a variety of rolls including Exalted Ruler of Kindersley Elks. Merlin's loyalty to family, friends, associations and businesses showed in all interactions. His stories and sense of humour endeared him to those he encountered in his journey through life. Few will forget his love of teasing, his easy wit and his cheerful smile. Merlin was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Kenneth; as well as infant siblings; Leonard, Thelma and Joy; mother-in-law, Winnifred Armstrong; sisterin-law, Greta Clarke; and brothers-in-law, Ross and Murray Armstrong. He leaves to mourn his wife, Elda; son, Courtney (Dawn) and grandchildren: Sadie, Kit and Emmy; as well as his nieces and nephews: Sharee (Glen), Rae, Darlene (Dave), Ross (Jean), Mandy (Cory) and their families; brother-inlaw, Ritchie (Marlene); sister-in-law, Arlene and Carol and her family; as well as very close friends who have been beacons to the family. The family thanks Dr. Moser and nurses from RUH for their care and support during the past few weeks of Merlin's life as well as all those who sent prayers, messages or visited. Special thanks to relatives and friends who joined in caring for Merlin during final weeks and to those who remain to support the family. A Memorial Service will be held at Saint Paul's United Church, Kindersley on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at 2:00 pm. Memorial donations may be made to the suggested charities or one of your choice: Saskatoon Chapter Osteoporosis Canada, Heart & Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Association or Saskatchewan Cancer Research. Email condolences can be sent to mail@saskatoonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the Saskatoon Funeral Home. 244-5577 Published in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix from 11/2/2009 - 11/6/2009 Notice • Guest Book