COLUMBUS--Merlin G. Thom, age 94, died peacefully on Friday, December 18, 2020. He was born on June 6, 1926 to Gustave and Edith (Lange) Thom. He was the only son and grew up on the family farm working alongside his father. On May 25, 1948 he married the love of his life, Betty Jane Parsons. They shared 72 years together always providing love and open arms to those who came into their lives.

Merlin is survived by his wife Betty and daughter Carolyn "Kate" (Mary Jo Gessler) Thom. The Thom family opened their home and hearts to many who call them Mom & Dad, all of whom will truly miss him. Daughters Cindy McDermott, Karen (Tim) Luey and Laura (John) Lien, sons Dale Roate and Tim (Silvana) Higgins. Grandsons Erick (Pam Cruz) Gray and Matthew (Amy) Gray. Great grandsons Gus, Hunter and Conner Gray; great granddaughter Chloe; great- great granddaughters Amber and Penny. Countless more called him Grandpa which he cherished so much.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, daughter and son-in-law, Penny and Robert Gray, sons Mike, Tim, Larry and Bruce, son-in-law Kevin McDermott and daughter-in-law Sharon Roate.

Merlin had a heart of gold.  A kindhearted man, liked by everyone he met and loved by many.  His shoes will never be filled. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. with a private family service at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the Jensen funeral home in Columbus. Face masks and social distancing will be required. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery, Columbus. We encourage you to please share your online condolences with Merlin's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com.