Merle Leon "Short" Hunnicutt

Merle Leon "Short" Hunnicutt, born July 13, 1922, went to his Lord June 30, 2005 in his home in Moses Lake with family by his side.

He leaves behind a loving companion of 14 years, Arlene Odle; two children and their families, Ken Hunnicutt and his wife Jerri of Plain and Linda Jungblom and husband Larry of Metaline Falls. He had four grandchildren who loved and cherished many special times with Grandpa: Tami, Niki, Stephanie and Scott; and six great-grandchildren: Jessica, Brandon, Carson, Nathan, Leif and Mailei. He also leaves behind a brother, Don Hunnicutt, and his wife Helen and several nieces and nephews.

Merle was born in Halbrook, and then the family relocated to Hood River, Ore. where he worked on the family farm and at assorted other jobs until drafted in 1942. Merle served in the Army during WWII in the Soloman Islands, New Guinea and the Philippines. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Philippine Liberation Medal Asiatic Pacific Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal.

Merle married Elsie January 30, 1946 and moved to Ridgefield. In 1952, they relocated to Moses Lake, where Merle worked in construction until retirement in 1982. In retirement, Merle lived for short periods of time in Metaline Falls and Spokane.

Merle enjoyed dancing, motorcycles and was an avid outdoorsman, hunter and fisherman.

Services will be held July 7, 2005 at 4434 Joann Drive N.E. in Moses Lake. In lieu of flowers, contribution may be made in Merle's honor to Central Basin Home Health and Hospice, 311 W. Third Ave., Moses Lake, WA 98837 or Heritage Baptist Church of Moses Lake.

Arrangements are in care of Benson Family Funeral Services of Moses Lake.