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On December 19, 2020, Richard took his final solo flight to his heavenly home. He was born on May 3, 1958, to Robert and Virginia Merkley, where he grew up on a dairy farm. After graduation from Neenah High School, Richard worked a short time for Buckstaff in Oshkosh, before 19 years of employment as a shop and field mechanic with Dean Foods (Larsen Co.) in Hortonville. All during this time Richard had his eye on the sky, as he obtained his private pilot license in 1985 and commercial pilot license in 1988. His passion for aviation led to an employment change in 1998 to the Waupaca Airport. As a flight instructor he shared that love of flying with many young and older students, where many continued to become his friends. Also, as a certified airframe mechanic he kept many planes flying safely. Richard was a life member of EAA, and gave rides to many young children with the Young Eagles program. Richard’s other passion was his Harley motorcycle, which took him and good friend Dan on a trip to the western states and many short trips within the state. He was also a great Packer fan.

Preceding Richard in death were his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Russ Zimmerman and Terry Shanklin.

He leaves behind a brother, Leland; two sisters, MaryJane Zimmerman and Helen Shanklin; and several dear friends.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, August 7, 2021, at the Waupaca Airport.

Forever Loved and Missed.

If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfh.net.