Merrill Joe Hinkle, 96, of Mayetta, KS, passed away Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born September 17, 1926 in Powhattan, KS, the son of George Blaine and Della Faye (Newlin) Hinkle.

Merrill graduated from Peabody High School in 1944. He proudly served in the United States Navy.

He worked for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in many departments; retiring after 38 years. He was a member of Wetmore American Legion Post 282 and Moose Lodge in Topeka.

Merrill was a rock hound, he enjoyed painting, polka dancing and woodworking. He built 2 personal homes through the years.

Merrill married Margarite Louis Keeler on November 21, 1949 in Horton, KS. She preceded him in death on September 8, 2020 after 70 years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by his parents, George Blaine and Della Hinkle; son, Michael Joe Hinkle and brother, Jewell Hinkle.

Survivors include his 2 sons, Bruce Hinkle (Georgette) of Mayetta, KS and Morris Hinkle (Janis) of Topeka, KS; daughter, Linda Mortimer (Harold) of Wichita, KS; sister, Laura Autrey of Topeka, KS; brother, Edward Hinkle of Foreman, AR; 7 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren plus several nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life for Merrill and Margarite will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023 at the Wetmore Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by Holton V.F.W. Post 1637, Wetmore V.F.W. and Holton American Legion Post 44. Memorials may be given to the 4-H of your choice or Wetmore American Legion Post 282 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.