Urcel R. Merritt, 88, of Elkhart, passed away on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born on June 2, 1934, in Mammoth, WV to the late Urcel and Eutha (Coble) Merritt.

Urcel was also preceded in death by his wives, Glenna Merritt, who passed away in 1979 and Mildred B. Merritt, who passed away in 2019; son, Urcel E. Merritt; stepdaughter, Sue Philips; and sister, Doris Jean Thomas. He is survived by his children, Tammy (Michael) Odiorne and Keith (Renee) Merritt; stepsons, Randy (Pam) Brock and Lee Brock; six grandchildren; and many great and great great grandchildren.

Cremation was chosen and will take place at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. in Elkhart. Family and friends are called together for a family led graveside service on Friday, July 22, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at Prairie Street Cemetery.

Urcel was a simple man who was said to be a natural born comedian with a quick-witted sense of humor. He enjoyed watching his westerns, cheering on his favorite Nascar driver, and lifting everyone's spirits by singing along to classic country music songs. He worked for 40 years at Adams and Westlake as a metal worker. When he retired, he enjoyed traveling alongside his wife, Millie, as they took a tour of the entire United States. In Urcel's younger years, he could play an incredible hand of Euchre and would often go out hunting with his friends. He will be missed greatly by his loving family and many friends.

"Take Me Home, Country Roads"