Merle Nanninga

Merle Nanninga, aged 85, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Belton Regional Hospital, Belton, MO. 

He was born on February 18, 1939, in Clay Center, KS to Wilma and Delmer Nanninga. He was a resident of Overland Park, KS and was a 1957 graduate of Clay Center High School. He married Rebecca (Becky) Ann Nanninga (Waltz) on January 22, 1972, in Clay Center, KS. He worked in Building Maintenance at Yellow Freight for over 25 years and retired in 1997. Merle never knew a stranger and loved talking to people, spending time with family, and watching the Chiefs, Royals, and Nascar. He enjoyed fishing and boating, loved flying, air shows, planes and watching Space Shuttle launches. He also loved driving around in his truck with his grand dog and "Little Buddy," Rita. He had a very mischievous side and loved joking with everyone.

He is survived by his wife, Becky, their daughter, Holly Nanninga, three children from his first marriage: Debbie Doherty, Sheri Randel and Charles Nanninga, three grandchildren: Brent (Brandi) Randel, Dustin (Kara) Doherty, and Paige (Sam) Leach; nine great grandchildren, and all his "favorite" in-laws, along with nephews, niece, cousins and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter Tara Marie Randel, niece Cynthia "Cindy" Joy Reed and many extended family members and friends. 

Family, friends, and others are invited to the Pleasant Valley Cemetery for a graveside service at 11:00 a.m. CT on Saturday, March 1, 2025, to reminisce and honor the life of Merle ("Big Boy"). A Celebration of Life will be planned to fondly remember Merle at a later date. 

In remembrance of Merle's life and love, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.