Merle E. Knuth Estelline, South Dakota Merle E. Knuth was born on April 6, 1924 in Deuel County, South Dakota the son of Evans and Charlotte (Erickson) Knuth. He died on Saturday, November 1, 2003 at the Estelline Nursing and Care Center at the age of 79 years. Merle received his education in Estelline, SD and was a graduate of the Estelline High School in 1942. After receiving his education he was employed at the Community Oil Co. until 1943 when, with his father they bought the Standard Oil Service Station. From 1944 until 1948, he served in the United States Air Force. Merle was united in marriage to Lola Williams on November 4, 1951 in Estelline. He was also employed as a Standard Oil bulk agent for ten years, and also drove the Estelline school bus for 45 years. Merle worked as a carpenter and served on the Estelline Police Force for six years. For 40 years he worked as a volunteer for the Fire Department as well as EMT and ambulance service. He was a member of the United Church Of Christ, Order Of The Eastern Star, American Legion for 59 years, a Master Mason for 56 years and a Master of the Lodge for 12 years. He was instrumental in getting the Bloodmobile started in the Estelline area and served as a volunteer consultant for the North Central Blood Region of the American Red Cross. Merle was one of the original members of the Estelline 49ers, the band that promoted Estelline, playing clarinet and alto saxophone. He enjoyed automobiles, woodworking, racing and craft work. Merle is survived by his wife Lola of Estelline; two sons Neil Knuth (Rochelle) of Montevideo, MN, Brad Knuth (Kathy) of Minneapolis, MN; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; several step grandchildren; one sister Audrey Linneman (Irwin) of Estelline, SD; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral Services: 10:30AM Tuesday, November 4, 2003 United Church Of Christ Estelline, SD Rev. Joyce Anderson and Rev. Don Davis, Officiating Visitation: 4PM until 7PM Monday Geise Funeral Home Estelline, SD Interment: Hillcrest Cemetery Estelline, SD Military Graveside Services by the American Legion