Seeley, Merlin Ross, 85, lovingly known as “Swede” and “Papa,” died on November 17, 2010 at his home in Orange, CA. Merlin was born in South Dakota and served in the US Marine Corps during WWII as an engineer equipment operator. After the war he returned home, married Betty and farmed and later owned a construction company. In 1962 they moved their family to Orange and he worked for Hobbs Trucking Co. and the California State Forestry where he bulldozed fire roads, until his retirement. Merlin served his community as a member of the Olive Volunteer Fire Department and as a 4-H leader for the Canyon Bobcats. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty; daughters, Lesa Williams (Tom) and Beth Southern (Richard); six granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. Per his request there will be no service. Shannon-Bryan Mortuary
Published in Orange County Register on November 26, 2010
