Merlin G. Baker, age 89, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Parkview Bryan Hospital. Merlin was born Feb. 10, 1937, in Waldron, Michigan, to the late Jack O. and Pauline (Ray) Baker.
He married Mary Lou Byers and she survives. Merlin was a mechanic and worked for Spangler Candy Company for 38 years. Merlin was baptized at and also attended Life Changing Church, Edgerton, Ohio.
He enjoyed fishing, bicycling and meticulously working in his yard. Above all, Merlin loved his family.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Lou; his daughter, Teresa (Curtis) Newcomer, of Westerville, Ohio; his sons, Jeff (Angie) Hartsock and Steve Hartsock, all of Bryan, Ohio; his daughter-in-law, Jill Baker; 11 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.
Merlin is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Terry Lee Baker; his grandson, Derek Hartsock; one brother; and one sister.
Visitation for Merlin will be held Friday, April 3, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Krill Funeral Home, Bryan, Ohio. A funeral service will be held at noon Friday at Krill Funeral Home, Bryan, Ohio, following the visitation. Pastor Rick Stiver will officiate. Interment will follow in Farmer Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers: Jeff Hartsock, Steve Hartsock, Dustin Hartsock, Jason Randall, Justin Randall and Brian Rogers.
Memorial contributions may be made to Life Changing Church, 428 W. Vine St., Edgerton, Ohio 43517. Online condolences may be given and the guest register signed at www.krillfuneralservice.com.
Krill Funeral Home, Bryan, Ohio, is honored to serve the Baker Family.