Merlyn R. Reiter, age 80, of Rockford, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at MercyOne North Iowa in Mason City.
Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025, at First United Methodist Church, 21 Third Street, Rockford, Iowa, with Rev. Chan Gok Kim officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church. Inurnment will follow at Riverside Cemetery, Rockford.
Merlyn was born on August 23, 1945, in Charles City, Iowa, the son of Eno John and Isabelle Cecelia (Hesse) Reiter. He grew up in Marble Rock and attended school there. Merlyn began his working career helping several area farmers before taking a job with Rockford Brick and Tile. He also worked part-time shingling buildings. In 1973, Merlyn began a long and dedicated career at Salisbury/Cambrex Chemicals in Charles City, Iowa.
On June 6, 1970, Merlyn was united in marriage to Ramona Jackson at First United Methodist Church in Rockford. They were blessed with two children and shared 55 loving years together.
Merlyn was a man of many interests and talents. He especially loved fishing and woodworking, crafting handmade wooden toys, games, a cradle, and a desk. He also enjoyed roller skating, a pastime that led him to meet the love of his life, Ramona, at the Clear Lake Rink. Merlyn was a passionate sports fan and enjoyed following the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Minnesota Vikings, and Minnesota Twins.
He will be remembered most for his deep love for his family, his unforgettable laugh, and his witty sense of humor.
Those left to cherish Merlyn’s memory include his loving wife Ramona Reiter; daughter Shelley (Michael) Brunner of Eau Claire, WI; grandchildren Kaylyn (Alex) Marquardt, Hannah, and Evan Brunner; great-grandchildren Freya and Celeste Marquardt; siblings Melvin (Anne) Reiter, Alvin Reiter, and Marlys Reiter; sisters-in-law Virginia Kuhlers and Sheryl Jackson; and his beloved pets — cat Oscar and dog Angel. He is also survived by many extended family members and great friends.
Merlyn was preceded in death by his beloved son Kevin, his parents, sister Maxine Watkins, and nephew Melvin Jr. Reiter.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at MercyOne in Mason City for the compassionate care they provided during Merlyn’s time there.
Arrangements are with Fullerton-Schumburg Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Rockford, Iowa.
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