Merle L. Vine, 83, resident of Cow Creek (Vida area), passed away Thursday, June 8th, 2017.
Merle was born March 21, 1934, in Wolf Point, MT. He was the second boy of three, born to Vern and Myrtle Vine.
Merle and his brothers were raised on the Cow Creek family farm, near Vida. While growing up, Merle attended small country schools near the farm. They usually walked to school and back each day, putting on several miles. In September 1957, Merle enlisted in the National Guard. He served at Fort Ord, CA and Fort Knox, KY. He was discharged in 1964.
At a New Year’s Eve dance, Merle met Ann Thoeny. On May 9, 1964, Merle and Ann were married. To this union, three daughters were born, Diane, Denise and Debbie.
In 1965, Merle and Ann bought a farm on Cow Creek, near Vida. They raised wheat and black angus cattle. Merle was a hard worker, teaching his girls, the valuable lessons of hard work.
He was an avid trap shooter, winning several silver pieces for his marksmanship. He enjoyed flying his Piper Cub airplane, after soloing in Wolf Point, MT. Merle and his dad, Vern, provided predator control, hunting coyotes from their planes. He was usually the sharp shooter in the back seat. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, discussing airplanes. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially, the outdoor time with his family.
After harvest in the fall, he would enjoy taking his family camping, in the mountains, near Sapphire Village. His nephew, Scott, would often accompany the family, after spending summer vacations with them. Merle enjoyed being able to work close beside his nephew in the summer.
In his later years, Merle enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them how to ride horse, motorcycle, combine and tractor. He also taught them the value of hard work.
Merle was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Myrtle (Stahlheim) Vine; brothers Tom and Harold Vine and a nephew Jerry Vine.
Merle is survived by his wife (Ann), daughters Diane (Tom) White, Denise (Joel) Haynie and Debbie (Pete) Sokoloski; grandchildren Christopher, Charmayne, Isabella (Kimball), Devin and Riley.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Patti Wittkopp, PA-C and the skilled nursing staff at McCone County Health Center and Nursing Home, for the exceptional care given to Merle during his stay.
Sweten Family says
To the Vine Family I’m sorry for your lost. My prays are with you as the days go by. ~love the Sweten Family
Kerry,
Georgia,
Gracie,
Larry French says
Sorry to here about Merle. My thoughts are with you. Vern and Merle and I go way back in the airplane business. What great fun we had and will be remembered for a long time.
Larry and Donna French
Nancy Foley says
To the family of erle Vine. My family sends their deepest sympathy to you. Our thoughts and prayers goes out to you. John 5:29
Nancy Foley says
To the family of Merle Vine. My family sends their deepest sympathy to you. Our thoughts and prayers goes out to you. John 5:29