Merlin L. Pearce

Merlin L. Pearce, 72, of Paola, passed away on April 19, 2026, at the University of Kansas Health Systems Hospice House.

He was born in Paola on August 12, 1953. His parents were Roy and Norma Pearce.

Merlin believed in hard work and a good work ethic. He began work at the age of 12 with various small jobs until finding his ultimate career working as a truck driver. As a truck driver he worked at Ross Truck Line, Delco, and Yellow Freight. After he retired from Yellow Freight he focused on his heart for service and began working at Tri-Ko as a jack of all trades, he could do just about anything from driving the bus to working one on one with clients.

Merlin also spent many years working the farm and raising cattle. He enjoyed making hay each year and taking care of the daily tasks of the farm.

On August 20, 1971, he married his middle school sweetheart, Deborah Pearce (Young). Merlin and Deborah were married for 54 years and made their home in rural Paola. They enjoyed many adventures together, especially their annual trips to Las Vegas.

He was a member of the Beagle Methodist Church and Local 41 Teamsters Union.

Merlin is survived by his loving Wife, Deborah, Daughters, Karri (Brian) Barker, Linda (Dale) Sylva, Brother, Doug (Jennie) Pearce, Step-Brother, Jeff McCulley, Aunt, Margaret (Daryl) Barnes. As well as nine grandchildren; Dakota (Brandon Teeters) Schlesener, Kelsey (Ethan) Debrick, Seth (Brianna) Schlesener, Dalton (Carol) Sylva, Alexandrea Sylva, Chloe (Darin Schweer) Light, Charlie Light, Aaliyah (Charlie McCain) Barker, Katrina Barker and five great-grandchildren with one on the way. He is also survived by many extended family members including nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Step-Mother, Lynn Pearce, Half-Sister, Laura Smith, Great-Grandson, Blaine Warren Eugene Schlesener.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 8:00pm at Dengel and Son Mortuary-Paola Chapel. A funeral service will take place the following day on Friday, April 24, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm. Burial will take place following the service at Fontana Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tri-Ko c/o Dengel and Son Mortuary-Paola Chapel 305 N. Pearl St. Paola, KS 66071.

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