Merle Coke

Merle R. Coke Ojai, CA Merle R. Coke age 92 of Ojai California passed away on April 26 2012. He was born on October 4 1919 in Herington, Kansas to John and Myrtle Coke. He was married to Wilma A. McCall July 13 1940 in Las Angeles, California. Merle was raised in Horton, Kansas and graduated from High School there. He moved to California 1939. Merle served in the Army in Europe during WWII. He moved from Hawthorne to Ojai in June 1948. He worked for Southern California Gas Company retiring after 36 years in 1984. Merle was Master at the Ojai Masonic lodge #663 and was a sergeant with the volunteer Ojai Security Patrol. Merle was a member of the American Legion and past president of Toastmasters. For many years Merle enjoyed camping, fishing and traveling in their motor home. He is survived by his wife of 71 years Wilma Coke, Son Merle Coke Jr. and wife Beverly Coke of Grove, OK, 14 grand Children, 45 great grandchildren and 8 great great- grandchildren. Merle and Wilma are longtime members of the Ojai United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by His parents, 5 brothers, one sister and his sons Gary Lynn, Lawrence Alan and Dale Malcolm. Celebration of Life will be held Thursday May 3, at 6pm at Ojai United Methodist Church 120 Church Rd. Ojai. Assisting the family with funeral arrangements is Ojai Valley Funeral Home 640-3600.