Merlin Brumbaugh

Funeral services for Merlin Brumbaugh were held on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at the Kotrba-Smith Funeral Home in Gregory, SD with Pastor Bill Serr officiating.

Music was provided by Geoff Smith, soloist, accompanied by Steve Swanson, pianist. Patsy Burkinshaw and Mary Swanson were in charge of registration and flowers attendants.

Casket bearers were Austin Pigman, Spencer Pigman, Chad Doyle, Scott Ritterbush, Todd Beck, Shane Schrader and Ben Wenger. Honorary casket bearers were Harold Burkinshaw, Dewey Peterson, Frank Beck, Ted Braun, Bruce Ritterbush, Arvid Lindquist, Jim Doyle and Todd Cook.

Interment was in the Spotted Tail Cemetery in Jamison,NE. Kotrba-Smith Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Merlin was born on November 9, 1945, in Gregory, SD, to Harold and Evelyn (Larsen) Brumbaugh. He grew up in Gregory, SD, and attended several schools in that area.

Merlin married Violet Schrader on December 31, 1964, and they lived in Burke for a short time. They then moved south of Gregory where he worked on a ranch.

Merlin and Violet had two children, Barbara and Brian. In 1969, they moved to their current ranch in Nebraska where he farmed and ranched until his passing. They milked dairy cattle and raised hogs and black Angus cattle.

Merlin had a love for animals and took great care of his livestock, dogs and cats. But his greatest love was for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. He taught his children and grandchildren to drive and enjoyed playing pool with them.

Merlin spent many days working in the field and taking care of his cattle. He enjoyed going to casinos, visiting with neighbors, and playing cards with family and friends.

Merlin Duane Brumbaugh passed away at home on October 9, 2021, at the age of 75 years.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Evelyn Brumbaugh, step-mother Ardys, brother Donald, and sister Gladys.

He is survived by his wife Violet, daughter Barbara, son Brian, granddaughter Megan (Nicholas), grandsons Spencer and Austin, one great-granddaughter, and nieces and nephew.