If you are reading this, I, Brenton William Merlin, 84, of Lee’s Summit, MO passed away Tuesday evening on the 25th of March 2025, holding my daughter’s hand. I was born in Boston, MA on November 6th to my parents, Hazel Belle (Bennet) Merlin and Brenton Louis Merlin. I was the oldest of the three boys, and the best looking.

I joined the United States Air Force to stay out of trouble. Trouble found me betting the guys I was stationed with, that I could steal Airman Alan M.’s girlfriend, Sandy, while on a double date.

Sandy became my wife on May 18th, 1961. We spent 50 great and active years together before she left me for another man, Jesus. We traveled, climbed mountains, loved fishing and were active in our church families. We raised four independent and sentimental children who don’t live anywhere near each other; Brenda (Keith) Hill of Adrian, MI; Brenton C. Merlin, Sean (Christina) Merlin of Rancho Mirage, CA; and Darren (Kristina) Merlin of Lee’s Summit, MO.

I retired from a long and fulfilling career at General Telephone when I was in my 50s. Having had two open heart surgeries, Dr.’s said I had a limited number of years so Sandy, and I hit the road in the Winnebago and spent three years visiting everyone we knew all over the continent. In my retirement years I worked for Walmart Distribution, a trophy shop, and various other small jobs. There just isn’t enough room to share all of my experiences.

In my later years, I found joy in telling stories of adventures and family history. My children would say it was “A Walk Thru History with Brent Merlin.” I cherished the moments being with each of my children and grandchildren, passing on the wisdom of patience and perseverance, or the lack of. I also found companionship with Nancy Peterkort of Lee’s Summit, with whom I spent eight years with. Nancy was good to me, and I hope I was to her. We had a lot of fun together traveling, taking dancing lessons, and eating good food.

Preceding me in death were my parents, and my wife Sandy (Kailey) Merlin (6/1/41 – 2/11/12), two grandchildren, William A. Hill (1/26/91-5/6/91) and Tyler W. Hill (8/24/92-3/23/22), my son Brenton (1963-2018), and my brother Allen (Mary) Merlin of Hull, MA this past November 2024.

I am survived by my loving children and their spouses, four grandchildren: Michael Alan (Chelsea) Hill of Milford Village, MI; Renee E. Merlin of Lee’s Summit, MO; Sean Michael Merlin Jr. and Parker Grace Merlin of Rancho Mirage, CA, who were all the light of my life. I am survived by my brother Murray (Betty) Merlin, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends who became family. Though I have left this world, I hope to be remembered for my adventurous spirit, my dedication to my loved ones, and the countless stories I shared with all who listened.

There will be a celebration of life service at Martin Luther Lutheran Church, 1200 SW Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit on Saturday, April 12th, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. I encourage everyone to come with a story, a smile, and a heart full of love. To those I leave behind, remember me not with tears but with laughter, for a life well-lived is a legacy worth celebrating, and I am with Jesus!