Merle Eugene Hyatt, Sr., age 80, of Springfield, Mo., passed away Thursday, May 5, 2011 in his home.
He was born February 20, 1931 in Platte City, the son of Clyde and Elizabeth (Allen) Hyatt.
Merle served in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Tech Sgt. and served during WW II, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam.
Merle painted round saw blades, loved to do wood carvings, and quliting. He also loved to travel and camp with his children. In 2000, he and one of his daughters drove to and from Alaska, camping all the way.
Merle had his Private Pilot’s License and was a Ham radio operator.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth (Allen) Hyatt; and son, Merle Eugene Hyatt, Jr.
He is survived by his wife, Clara LaVon Hyatt; father, Clyde Hyatt; daughters, Donna Marie Scholl, Hazel Gwendolyn Gibson, Catherine Lee Bullinger, Judy Lynn Tharp and Jessica LaVon Hyatt; nine grandchildren; ten great- grandchildren; and sister, Margie Folz.
Graveside services will be Tuesday, May 10, 2011 in the U.S. National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. with full military honors to by provided by the team from Whiteman Air Force Base.