Merle G. Ellis, 77, of rural LaFontaine, IN, died Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, at 7:35 p.m. at Miller's Merry Manor West, in Wabash.

Mr. Ellis had worked at MarkHon, in Wabash, for 46 years, retiring in 2001. He also owned Ellis Red Barn Antiques. He was a member of the LaFontaine United Methodist Church, Wabash Eagles Lodge, American Welding Society, Wabash Men's Bowling Association and the Wabash Valley Sawdust Gang.

He was born Sept. 25, 1935, in Wabash to Alfred D. and Doris M Tyner Ellis. His first marriage was on Oct. 4, 1953, in Richvalley to Jackie Working; she preceded him in death on May 12, 2002. He married Barbara Place Sluss on July 26, 2003, at St. Matthew's United Church of Christ, in Wabash. She survives.

Additional survivors include two stepsons, Clint (Julie) Sluss and Jim Sluss, both of Wabash; a son-in-law, Gary Harlan, of Wabash; two grandchildren, Jennifer (Brent) Johnson, of Noblesville, and Matt (Nichole) Culver, of Wabash; five step-grandchildren, Olivia Sluss and Alex Sluss, both of Wabash; Jennifer (Bryan) Whitaker, Chelsie (Kent) Montgomery and Gary Harlan Jr.; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Calling is Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with a memorial service following at 11 a.m., at the LaFontaine United Methodist Church. Brad Garrett will officiate. Mr. Ellis donated his body to the Indiana Anatomical Society, and burial will be at a later date

Memorial gifts may be made to the Vernon Manor Home for Children or to the charity of the donor's choice.

Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash, is in charge of arrangements.

To sign the online guest book, visit www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.