Merrill Larry Stutzman was born May 17, 1939, in Milford, to Fred and Agnes (Bender) Stutzman, and passed away Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, at the age of 84.
Merrill was married to Violet R. (Troyer) Stutzman on June 22, 1961. From this union, four children were born: Brian, Jerolyn, Jyl and Barry. Throughout his life, Merrill worked as a tractor tire service technician for the Milford Co-op for 34 years and DNA Genetics.
One of his greatest passions was traveling. Along with Vi, They volunteered for Service Opportunity for Older People, through the Mennonite Mission Board, traveling to Massachusetts to Arizona and many places in between helping wherever needed. In his spare time, he enjoyed tinkering around the house and managing the small farm he owned for 43 years. He especially enjoyed taking care of his sheep and watching the lambs play in the spring. He also enjoyed helping the neighbors with their harvest in the fall.
Merrill and Violet moved into Milford in 2010. Since moving to town, he kept busy drinking coffee with friends and tending to his garden. He also enjoyed making whirligigs and walking sticks. His grandchildren loved spending time with him. He taught us patience, to always do the right thing, that family is important, don’t hold a grudge, to be kind and to love the Lord.
He is survived by his wife, Violet R. Stutzman, Milford; son, Brian Stutzman, Florissant, Missouri; daughters, Jerolyn (Dave) Urbach, Seward, and Jyl (Todd) Godwin, Cuero, Texas; grandchildren, Tabitha Pelfrey, Ben Urbach and Josh Urbach; two step-grandchildren, Megan Green, and Kate Cox; brother, Robert Stutzman; sisters-in-law, Betty Springer, Eunice Stutzman, and Norma Troyer; and rother-in-law, Bill Armfield. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Barry; one brother; three sisters; and granddaughter, Samantha Pelfrey.
A Celebration of Life service was Oct. 2 at Bellwood Mennonite Church with a private inurnment service later at Blue Mound Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested in care of the family for a later designation. Arrangements by Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services.
