Merlyn Ralph Wookey

Merlyn Ralph Wookey, 86, passed away March 5, 2023 at the Jenkins Living Center in Watertown, South Dakota.

Merlyn was born February 22, 1937 in Clark, South Dakota to Ralph and Fern (Hart) Wookey.  He attended a rural country school in Clark County and graduated from Clark High School in 1955.  Merlyn served in the United States Army for 3 years being stationed in Fort Benning GA and Bamberg, Germany.

Merlyn married Alice Solberg on August 5, 1961 in Clark SD.  They lived in Denver, Colorado where he was employed with Public Service Co. of Colorado. They then moved to Redfield, South Dakota when he began working for Northwestern Public Service Co.  They also lived in Huron and Webster. Merlyn was an instructor in First Aid and CPR.  He obtained a license as a Journeyman and Contractor under the South Dakota Electrical Commission.  He served on numerous local and state committees to improve the communities in which he lived including Webster Kiwanis Club, Webster Development Corporation, Heritage Village Apartments and as a Director for Interstate Telephone Cooperative.

Merlyn’s hobbies included fishing, hunting, golfing, traveling, reading, bird watching and playing cards.  Their travels took them to see all 50 states, Canada, Mexico and Norway.

Merlyn is survived by daughters Kay (Tom) Dietz of Eagan, MN and Karen (Tim) Sparrow of Highlands Ranch, CO and four grandchildren, Jason, Justin, Cody and Holly.

Merlyn is preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, Harold and sister, Clarine.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, April 15 at 2:00 p.m. at the American Lutheran Church in Webster SD.  Cards of condolences can be sent to Kay Dietz 583 Eden Circle, Eagan, MN  55123.  Memorials may be given in Merlyn’s honor to South Dakota Public Broadcasting or the Webster Fire Department.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Merlyn Ralph Wookey, please visit our floral store.