Bud Wakefield

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Merrill Hayzlett (Bud) Wakefield, 89, passed away peacefully at home on July 24, 2015. Merrill was born in Carthage, son of J.M. and Millie Wakefield. He graduated from Carthage High School in 1944 and served in the army from August 1944 to June 1946. He served in WWII with the 103rd Infantry Division in France, Germany, and Austria.

Merrill was a machinist at Reed Engineering, then Webb Corporation, from which he retired in 1991. He was a long-time member of the Knights of Pythias. He enjoyed coon and quail hunting, camping, going to the races, and watching Cardinals baseball. He spent many hours after work in his garage helping friends work on their cars. Merrill was preceded in death by his wife Jerene, sisters Dortha Anderson and Faye Wright and many good friends. He is survived by his daughters Sandy Hunt (and Jim), Martha Lambeth (and Eddy), sons Dan Wakefield (and Pat), and Jim Wakefield, by 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren, and 4 nieces. Never critical, always supportive, Merrill was never heard to say an unkind word to anyone. We will miss his dry sense of humor. Thanks to all who visited in Merrill’s final days and brought comfort to the family. We would also like to thank Mercy Hospice for their help and compassion. Donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, or Mercy Hospice Joplin.

Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at Ulmer Funeral Home with Visitation just prior to services from 12:00 to 1:30. Burial will be in Park Cemetery. Online condolences can be made to www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of The Ulmer Funeral Home.