Merle “Stocky” Stockwell, 94, of John Day, died Dec. 13 at Blue Mountain Hospital in John Day. A graveside service was held Dec. 17 at St. Andrews Cemetery in Canyon City, followed by a reception at the Snaffle Bit Dinner House.

Mr. Stockwell was born Aug. 19, 1921, in Corvallis, to Horace Eugene Stockwell and Audra Elizabeth Hood Lusk. He attended Seneca Elementary and Grant Union High School. He then spent four years in the Merchant Marines.

In 1942, he married Annabelle Cummins. They divorced in 1955.

In 1958, he married Lois Zierer.

He spent his career working as a timber faller and heavy equipment operator for the Edward Hines Lumber Company, retiring after 25 years.

He enjoyed the Grant County lifestyle of fishing, hunting and camping with friends and family. He was a member of the Burns and John Day Elks lodges, and St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Canyon City.

Survivors include his daughter, Joy Lyons Hoff of Wilsonville; son, Steve Stockwell of Vancouver, Washington; four grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Stockwell, in 1989; and son, Kelley Stockwell.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Seneca School Foundation or the Blue Mountain Hospital Foundation through Driskill Memorial Chapel, 241 S. Canyon Blvd., John Day, OR 97845.

For condolences, visit www.driskillmemorialchapel.com/.