1881 Pioneer Laid To Rest Here Monday.

Charles A. Merkley, Who Succumbed Friday, Paid Final Respects at Funeral Rites Held Monday.

Maeser, (Special) - Impressive funeral services were held Monday at 1p.m.in the Maeser Chapel for Charles A. Merkley, 60, who passed away at his home Friday evening, after a serious illness. The services were conducted by the Maeser Bishopric with W.E. Bodily in charge. The floral offerings were many and beautiful. A quartet sang "Sometime We'll Understand." Invocation by Thomas Bingham. A vocal duet, "Whispering Hope," was sung by Leslie Thacker and Mrs. Joseph Merkley.

John L. McConkie, the first speaker, told of his long aquaintance of 44 years with the deceased of his honesty and integrity. A vocal solo, "Lay My Head Beneath A Rose", was sung by Warren Jones. Carl R. Richens spoke of the home conditions: love, affection and honesty of the Merkley family. Closing remarks were made by W.E. Bodily. The chorus sang, "Now He's Gone, We'd Not Recall Him." Benediction by W.H. Siddoway.

The casket was attended by his five sons: Murray, Joseph, Jay, Sidney and Ward and Glen Murray, a nephew. A long cortege followed the remains to the Vernal Cemetery where interment was made. The grave was dedicated by Bishop Lester Bingham.

Mr. Merkley is survived by his invalid wife and the following children: Mrs. Gertrude Britt, Mont.; Murray Merkley, Jensen; Mrs. Clara Nelson, Joseph, Jay, Sidney and Ward Merkley, all of Vernal; Mrs. Emeline Varley, of Salt Lake; and Mrs. Sarah Engberson of California; The following brothers and sisters survive: George D., Vernal; Christopher, Duchesne; Henry of Jensen, William S., and Mrs. Sadie Coltharp of Vernal and Mrs. Hanry Hall Hungtington besides many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and a host of relatives.

Charles Albert Merkley was born January 11, 1869 at Cedar Fort, Utah, the son of Nelson and Sarah Jane Sanders Merkley. He came to Ashley Valley in July 1881. On May 27, 1888 he was married to Mary Lavina Murray. The family home has been in Maeser ever since coming to the valley.

-Vernal Express, December 27, 1934

He married Mary Lovina Murray May 28, 1888 in Vernal, Utah.

Children not listed below: Sidney Franklin Merkley