McGHEE, Merton Melvin
Husband, father, brother, son, grandfather, friend. Farmer, carpenter, electrician, community leader and church man, Mason, board member, dancer, joker: these things and many more describe the extraordinary life of Merton Melvin McGhee who died peacefully on the morning of July 27, 2010 after a brief stay at the Drumheller Regional Hospital. He is survived by Jean, his loving wife of 52 years, and by his devoted sons Stacy, Randy and Todd and their wives, Ruth, Joan, and Faye. Mert was also a loving grandfather to Bradley, Alyse, Keara, Delaney, Gavin, Michael, Curtis and Courtney. He is also survived by his four sisters, Verna, Elzaida, Lois and Joan; he was predeceased by his brother Calvin. Mert was born on October 7, 1933 in Drumheller, and raised on the family farm in the Orkney District. After a brief stint in Calgary training as an electrician and welder, Mert returned, in 1959 – with Jean, his bride of two years – back to the farm to stay. Mert loved his chosen career and the community in which he lived and contributed much through his leadership in 4-H, as an elder with the Presbyterian church, president of the Orkney Athletic Association, member of the agricultural advisory board for the municipality, and as past Master of Symbol Lodge Number 93. He eventually moved off the farm into Drumheller in 1997, handing over the farm to his youngest son, Todd. He never really quit farming; as long as his health would allow, he was up at the farm helping in whatever way he could. Mert was also an avid curler, skiier, and hockey player, spent countless summers playing softball and tennis. He enjoyed dancing on Saturday evenings with his wife Jean, and playing all sorts of card games, Dominoes and Mexican Train with many good friends over the years, all evidence of his very fun-loving and social nature. Mert loved traveling, too, and had many memorable trips with family and friends. Mert McGhee, lover of people, of life and the land he worked, will be fondly remembered and always deeply loved by his family and many dear friends. He leaves a wonderful legacy as a family man and community man. The McGhee family would like to thank the nursing staff at the Drumheller Regional Hospital, Drs Olfert and Racz, Homecare, and the many family and friends who have extended such warm care and assitance to Mert through these recent years. A private committal service was held at the Sarcee Butte on Friday, July 30. A memorial service was held on Saturday, July 31, at 11 a.m., Knox United Church in Drumheller. {jathumbnail off}
