Merle Strole 1938-2023
Merle Cline Strole, 84, of Valley Falls, passed away Tuesday, June 13, 2023.
He was born June 29, 1938, in Denison, the son of Vernon Maxey and Florence “Pauline” (Cline) Strole.
Merle graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1956 and attended Washburn University, working towards a teaching degree in history. He proudly served in the United States Army. He was a lifelong member of the Valley Falls community.
He worked for Guy’s Potato Chips selling on his route, he worked for American Linen and later retired in July 2000 from the Kansas Highway Patrol.
Merle enjoyed most sports including Chiefs, Royals, KU and K-State. He was known for his sense of humor, sarcasm and quick wit. It was common to find him at home by 5 p.m. so he wouldn’t miss his show, “Jeopardy.” He liked cars, working on them and took pride in having a clean car.
He married Janie Spielman on Aug. 9, 1966 in Miami, Okla. She preceded him in death after 33 years of marriage on April 7, 2000. His companion, Laura Jane Foley, preceded him after 10 years on Sept. 8, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Florence “Pauline” Strole; a brother, Connie Strole; and two great-grandchildren, Slader Ray Shinn and Rylee Welborn.
Survivors include his three children, Lori Glissman (Mike) of Valley Falls, Rod Strole of Topeka and Lee Welborn (Larry) of Valley Falls; sister, Peggy Wichman (Galen) of Richmond; five grandchildren, Shelbie Morgison (Kyle) of Perry, Kolbie Glissman and Kyle Glissman, both of Valley Falls, and Cindi Welborn and Erik Welborn (Lacy) of Valley Falls; and six great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kolt and Cort Morgison, Vada Shinn and Lucas and Wade Welborn,
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17 at Valley Falls United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Valley Falls Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time.
Memorials may be given to the Valley Falls Community Foundation, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
