Merlin D. Kreighbaum

Merlin D. Kreighbaum, 73, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at Miller Merry Manor in Culver.

Born in Rochester, Indiana on June 10, 1949, Merlin was the son of John Dale Sr. and Melba Jane (Miller) Kreighbaum.

He served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee during the Vietnam War and was Honorably Discharged in 1968. Through a blind date while roller-skating, Merlin met this wonderful woman named Darlene Reaker and on June 19, 1973, they were married at Calvary Lutheran Church in Plymouth. They shared 49 years of wonderful marriage together. Merlin was the love of Darlene’s life.

Merlin worked as a farmer for many years before going to work for Jay Bates Corporation for 15 years until his retirement.  He was known as a happy go-lucky man that always had a one-line joke for anyone. Merlin and Darlene enjoyed traveling to Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Michigan going on many camping trips together. Merlin also enjoyed working on cars and tractors, especially when it came to his favorite, John Deere’s.

He was also a member of Plymouth American Legion Post 27

He is survived by his wife, Darlene of Plymouth; his son J.D. Kreighbaum II of Terre Haute, IN; and his brother, Dennis Loy (Rebecca) Kreighbaum of Shelbyville, IN; as well as nieces and nephews.

Merlin is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 23, 2022 from 11- 1 pm at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth. Funeral services will immediately follow with Life Celebrant James Smart officiating.

Burial will be in the New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth.

Memorial contributions can be made to American Diabetes Association 8604 Allisonville Rd Ste 140, Indianapolis, IN 46250 or the Center for Hospice Care, 112 S. Center Street Suite C Plymouth, IN 46563.