Merle Kettinger

Merle Louis Kettinger, age 99, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, hard work, and joyful living. Born on April 29, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, Merle lived a full and meaningful life defined by his love of family, service to his country, and passion for the simple pleasures.

A proud veteran, Merle enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 and served during World War II from July 1944 to January 1946, mostly on the AK-125 US Lesuth, a liberty ship. After the war he attended several reunions with his shipmates across the country. Upon returning home, he dedicated his career to Gulf Oil, where his strong work ethic and reliability were hallmarks of his many years of service.

On February 7, 1948, Merle married the love of his life, Eunice. The two shared 72 wonderful years together before her passing in 2020. Their bond was built on love, laughter, and countless adventures, traveling together to Alaska, Texas, Las Vegas, and Mexico.

Merle had a deep love for the outdoors and was especially fond of boating and fishing for walleye and perch. He was known for hosting unforgettable parties and fish frys with friends and family. He was also a skilled tinkerer, particularly when it came to cars—buying, fixing, and selling them was a favorite pastime in his younger years.

A devoted Detroit Tigers fan, Merle rarely missed a game. He also watched every single episode of Gunsmoke, a show he never tired of. In his later years at Genoa Care Center, he became a beloved regular at Friday Happy Hours, where he enjoyed a cold Miller High Life and good company.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents, Tracy and Iona (Goulet) Kettinger; wife, Eunice; and siblings, Kenny Kettinger, Dorothy Mominee, Don Kettinger, and Tom Kettinger. He is survived by his children, Michael (Julie) Kettinger, Joyce (John Soltesz) Kettinger, Robert (Carolyn) Kettinger, Gerald (Dianna) Kettinger; grandchildren, Kelly (Travis) Lepley, Keasha Clark, and Kaesie Kettinger; and great-grandchildren, Jayden, Luke, Connor, Olivia, and Rylan.

Family and friends may visit Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 4-8 pm at Walker Funeral Home, Oregon Chapel, 3500 Navarre Rd. The Funeral Mass for Merle will be Monday, July 28, 2025, at St. Ignatius Catholic Church at 11 am. Interment will follow in St. Ignatius Cemetery.

The Family would like to thank Genoa Care Center of the compassionate care for Merle. Memorial donations may be made to Genoa Retirement Village Resident Funds for Happy Hour.

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