Merrill D. Runyan

Merrill D. Runyan, age 79, of Stover passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2017 at his home surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born August 7, 1937, in Milo, Iowa. The youngest child of Lon Sanford and Bernice Inez Moon Runyan. On October 5, 1958, in Indianola, Iowa, Merrill was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, S. Darlene Dilks, who preceded him in death on November 18, 2015.

He was a 1955 graduate of Indianola High School, where he was affectionately known as “Bones” by his classmates. He attended college at University of Iowa and then transferred to Northwest Missouri State in Maryville, and received a Bachelor’s degree in education. He continued his education receiving a Master’s degree at the University of Wyoming in Laramie.

He was the Junior High Principal in Maitland and High School Principal in Graham and Hamilton. He then took a position in Richmond as the athletic director.

In 1977, Merrill and his wife Darlene started Miracle Marble in Richmond. Merrill and Darlene later co-owned Imperial Marble, Inc. in North Kansas City.

In 1993, Merrill and Darlene moved to Leavenworth, Kansas, where they became active members of the Southern Heights United Methodist Church. During their 15 years in Leavenworth, Merrill flipped houses and drove trucks during the harvest season and was an “adorable rascal” to those who loved him.

In August of 2009, Merrill and Darlene retired to the Stover community and transferred their membership to the Stover United Methodist Church, where he was a very active member.

He always stayed busy with his many projects in his workshop, affectionately deemed “Grandpa’s Work” by his grandchildren. He enjoyed “mill-dewing” and helping others.

He is survived by his loving children, Tracie and Elonzo King of Ozark, Tonya Rick Metzger of Lee’s Summit, and Terrill and Anita Runyan of Leavenworth, Kansas; seven grandchildren, Kurtis, Shelby, Ethan, Kole, Morgan, Korian, and Kloe; a brother, Max Runyan of Hemet, California; and a sister, Carolyn Scherf of Clarinda, Iowa; along with several nieces and nephews, and his beloved companion Pacer.

In addition to his wife, Darlene, he is preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Merrill's life will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 21, at the Stover United Methodist Church, with the family receiving friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Rev. Diane Cutler will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Merrill D. Runyan, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association.

Tuesday, March 21, 2017 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Stover United Methodist Church 206 North Hickory Street Stover, MO 65078

Tuesday, March 21, 2017 11:00 AM

Stover United Methodist Church 206 North Hickory Street Stover, MO 65078

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association.