Merlin Emig, 79 years, of Salida CA, passed away at home suddenly and unexpectedly.
Merlin was born in Modesto to Chester and Freda Emig. Raised in Escalon, Merlin attended Lone Tree Elementary and graduated from Escalon High School. Following his attendance at Modesto Junior College, Merlin enlisted in the US Army Reserves and was honorably discharged in 1970. Merlin worked 39 years as a papermaker at Simpson/Fox River Paper Company in Ripon CA.
Merlin’s life passions included camping & fishing with family, RV trips with his wife, laboring in yard maintenance for not only his home but for several widowed neighbors. Merlin liked to say he ‘puttered’ around the house and for his children’s homes which included yards, concrete projects, fence building, and however else he was able to contribute. He loved being outside working in the sun. Merlin was always willing and happy to help anyone and everyone. He was a self-taught handyman which served him well when he built onto his home, poured many yards of concrete in his lifetime, and honed his masonry skills; all accomplishments for which he took immense pride.
Merlin will be remembered as a loving, devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa, great grandpa, neighbor and friend. Merlin’s love for Jesus, his love for family and family gatherings was something for us to model.
Merlin is survived by his wife, Debra Bowling Emig; his children, Janica Emig (Archie), Julie Medrano (Ty), Jeremy Emig, and stepson Michael Bowling. Granddaughters Megan Medrano Perez (Ricky), and Heather Medrano. Great-grandsons Jaydon, Henry, Spencer, and Lucas Perez. Siblings Eldon Emig (Judy), Dale Emig (Sharon), and Janice Birkley (Lyle). And Merlin would not want us to forget his beloved dog Sherman.
Merlin was a member of First Baptist/Crosspoint Community Church for more than 30 years and served as their lead usher for many years. A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Thursday, April 28, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Crosspoint Community Church. 1301 12th St, Modesto. Fellowship will follow service.