Obituary of Merlin Lee Stoner, Sr.

Merlin Lee Stoner, Sr. was born on April 26, 1951, in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of five children born from the union of Norman Lee and Rosetta (Reed) Stoner, Sr. He was educated in the Monroe Public School System.

On August 14, 1971, at the Stewart Road Church of God, Merlin married the love of his life, the former Ruby “Rene” Bellestri. The happy couple were blessed with the birth of two sons. To provide for his family, Merlin was employed in skilled trades as a plumber.

In his younger years, Merlin found solace in Northern Michigan hunting for deer with his wife Ruby. They were often joined by family and friends, who also relished the experience of camping and spending time together. More recently, his son Jeremy joined the entourage, creating cherished memories together.

Merlin was passionate about many things in life, but one of his greatest joys was watching wrestling. He was known to be quite handy.  He often could be tinkering on appliances, in an attempt to fix them. Fishing was another one of Merlin's great passions. He spent many days on his boat locally, enjoying the company of friends and family who also shared his love for the water.

A devoted family man, Merlin cherished the moments he spent with them, especially with his grandchildren. Throughout his life, he had various pets that he spoiled and doted on.  However, his adoration for Bailey his four-year-old Morkie was unmatched, and she was by far his favorite.

Merlin Lee Stoner, Sr., age 72, of Newport, passed away at 11:05pm, on Sunday January 21, 2024, at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital.  His passing was preceded by his parents and a brother: Norman Stoner, Jr. and two great grandchildren.

To cherish his memory, he leaves a beloved wife of fifty-two years: Ruby “Rene”; two sons: Merlin Stoner Jr. and Jeremy (Erica) Stoner; a brother: David (Stephanie) Stoner; two sisters: Judy (Bobby) Wilson and Christine (Dan) Laura; four grandchildren: Tyler, Jasmine, Autumn, and Summer; and four great grandchildren: Lux, Luna, Liam, and Levi and a sister-in-law: Joann Stoner. The family would like to thank Aamer Bhurgri, MD for his compassion and care of Merlin.

No public services are planned. His care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. Cremation has taken place through the on-site crematory; Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

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