John Keith Merrell, 88, Noblesville, died June 30 at his home.
He is survived by his wife Verna and four children and their families: Carrie (Merrell) Houchin of Huntingburg, Ind., Liz (Merrell) Ricci of Cincinnati, Ohio, Jay Merrell of Noblesville, Tom Merrell of Indianapolis and their families. His daughter, Amelia Merrell, preceded him in death.
The son of William and Blanche Merrell, John was born in Richmond, Ind. on April 1, 1927 and was the youngest of nine children. After he graduated from Richmond High School in 1945, John served his country as a member of the United States Navy. He graduated from Purdue University in 1950 where he met his beloved wife, Verna, and became a lifelong member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
John moved to New York City in 1950 to begin his career in sales at Spaulding Fiber Company. He and Verna were married in 1950 at The Little Church Around the Corner and greatly enjoyed their time in New York. The family moved back to Noblesville in 1966 and on July 1 of the same year, John founded Industrial Dielectrics, Inc. He grew the business to become the global industry leader in thermoset composite materials with eight manufacturing locations around the world and over 700 dedicated and loyal employees. He held several national industry leadership positions during his career.
A child of the depression and extraordinarily humble beginnings, John embodied the American Dream from which he took great pride.
With his sharp wit and love of life, John was a true raconteur whose presence always filled the room, charming those around him. Through travel and constant learning, he instilled a curiosity and sense of adventure in his family and friends all of whom both admired and loved him dearly. John became a thoughtful philanthropist who was attentive to the plight of those around him and charitable with his time and means. Above all, he was a devoted husband, loving father, and wonderful grandfather.
A visitation will be held on Monday July 6 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Noblesville Presbyterian Church with a funeral service to follow. A private family burial service will be held later. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s name can be made to the American Cancer Society, the Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville, or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Randall & Roberts Funeral Homes, Noblesville – Fishers.