Merlin Vhal was born December 12, 1922 to Lenard and Lena Vhal in Headingley, Manitoba. On November 14, 1944, Merlin married Kathleen Atkings and they had two children, Muriel and Laurie. Together they spent over 50 years on their farm in the Ratner District until Kathleen’s passing September 5, 1995. Later in life Merlin remarried Lucy Walton and they lived in Arborfield until last September. Merlin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. His life centered around his family, whom he took fishing and camping whenever possible. Merlin had many jobs over the years. From the time he was quite young he started commercial fishing at Big Sandy during which he spent some time on a trap line. Ditch digging, bridge building & telephone repair were some of the jobs he did in the RM around his home. Merlin spent many years farming crops and raising livestock. Following that, he once again returned to the bush and nature and spent time logging, eventually becoming bush foreman. Merlin was a spunky, hardworking, patient, good-natured man. These qualities were evident even in his last minutes as he had his six grandchildren laughing just prior tohis passing. Merlin is predeceased by his first wife, Kathleen; his daughter, Muriel Gordon; and numerous other relatives. Merlin will be sadly missed by his family. He leaves behind his wife, Lucy; son, Laurie (Shirley); son-in-law, Wayne; stepchildren, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Memorial contributions in memory of Merlin may be directed to the Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation 2217C Hanselman Court Saskatoon, Sask. S7L 6A8