Merlin Dean Brinckman
Merlin Dean Brinckman passed away on Thursday, March 18, 2010 in Yuma AZ. He was born in Garden City KS on June 25, 1943. His survivors include his wife, LeAnna Janeal Brinckman; his daughter, Joy Marie O and his son, Paul James Brinckman. Survivors also include five grandchildren, a brother and sister, two nephews and a niece.
Merlin was the third child of Paulus Henry and Julia Anne Brinckman of Meade, KS. Merlin graduated from Meade High School in 1962. He married his wife in 1965. He attended Southwestern College at Winfield, KS and Friends University studying computer science and audiovisual techniques. He served in the United States Navy for four years. After his service to his country, he moved to San Diego, CA and worked as a licensed embalmer. After returning to Meade, KS his places of employment included Randy’s Market, Bungee Corporation, Meade High School, and Meade Historical Museum. In 2009, he experienced meaningful mission work in Peru. He was an active member of United Methodist Men in Meade and Yuma, and Meade Veterans of Foreign Wars.
There is to be a memorial service in Yuma, AZ on the 26th of March at First United Methodist Church of Yuma at 10 a.m. with reception following. Services will be lead by personal friend, Pastor Jim Wiltbank. There will also be a memorial service at the Meade United Methodist Church on April 10th at 10 a.m. Services will conclude with a reception following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Peru Missions c/o Merlin Brinckman, First United Methodist Church, 298 West 3rd Street, Yuma, AZ 85364-2220.
All who knew Merlin knew how much he loved a good joke. We will miss his amusing sense of humor.