Merle P. Cheney, 94, died on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019 at 6:12 a.m. at his residence in Ada.

He was born on Jan. 20, 1925, in Hardin County, Ohio to the late Harley L. and Opal E. (LaPort) Cheney.  On June 18, 1948, Merle married Lucille Helser and she survives in Ada.

Merle retired from Wilson Sporting Goods of Ada after working for 38 years.  He was a member of the Ada Church of Christ Disciples.  He was a U.S. Army veteran who served during WWII from from July 6, 1943 to May 28, 1946. 

After his military service Merle returned to the Village of Ada and worked for the Street Department.  Merle volunteered at Lima Memorial Health System, Easter Seals, the March of Dimes, the Farmers and Merchants Picnic and making peanut brittle for the church yearly.  He was a life member of the Ada VFW Post #9381. 

Merle enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, gardening, mowing, and he was an avid OSU Buckeyes fan.  He especially enjoyed spending time with his beloved dogs: Corey Lin, Susie Q and Snickers Sue.  Merle’s last walk was with his beloved dogs.  

Merle is also survived by his four children: Linda Schaudt of Ada, Larry (Vicki) Cheney of Ada, Rhonda (Timothy) Dyer of Ada and Merle Alan Cheney of Ada; five grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a great granddaughter, a son-in-law, four sisters and three brothers.

Funeral services will begin at noon on Thursday, Dec. 12, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada, with Pastor Jacob Reel officiating.  Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery with graveside military honors conducted by the Ada VFW Post #9381 Honor Guard.  

Friends may call two hours prior to the service from 10 a.m. to noon to on Thursday, Dec. 12, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ada Church of Christ Disciples, 316 S. Main Street, P.O. Box 45, Ada, Ohio 45810.