Merlin Aloysius Staab, 81, of Reeds, Missouri, passed away Saturday, January 20, 2018 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Merlin was born on July 26, 1936 in Marcus, Iowa, son of the late Aloysius and Johanna (Keller) Staab. He was a 1954 graduate of Slayton High School in Slayton, Minnesota. On May 3, 1959 he was united in marriage to Phyllis Huff. Merlin proudly served four years in the United States Army. He was engaged in full time farming as well as a heavy equipment mechanic. He was a member of Risen Ranch Cowboy Church in Carthage, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Andrew Staab and Clarence Staab; two sisters, Florence Cullen and Luella Smith.

Merlin is survived by his wife, Phyllis; a daughter, Regina Wallace and husband, Wayne, of Plano, Texas, a son, Michael Staab and wife, Jenifer, of Halltown, Missouri; two granddaughters, Morgan Staab and Samantha Staab; one great-granddaughter, Ashlee; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Staab will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.