Merle Sturm

Merle Sturm

1953 ~ 2021

It is with the heaviest of hearts that Marilyn announces that her beloved husband, Merle Allan Sturm, passed away at his home in the Cypress Hills on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at the age of 67 years. Merle was born in Medicine Hat on August 22, 1953, a son to proud parents, Frank and Helen Sturm. He was raised in the Cypress Hills just south of Elkwater and attended Lebanon School and Medicine Hat High School. He married Marilyn in Medicine Hat on May 30, 1975 and they were blessed with a daughter, Jody. Merle loved living life in the country and all it had to offer. Taking care of the cattle and puttering about the farm was all in a day’s work for him. He loved his animals including his cat and especially pampered the dogs with BBQ’d steak – no animal would ever go hungry! Being a rancher, Merle was always helpful and willing to lend a neighbor a hand when needed. Family was important to him and he always had a watchful eye over his granddaughter to make sure she was safe from any hazards. Merle enjoyed watching his daughter, Jody and granddaughter, Josie compete in local barrel racing events… he was their #1 fan! He also enjoyed spending time with Jayson and Ian in the back country quadding and hunting. Merle served the area as a member of the Cypress County Fire Department and drove school bus for many years. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Marilyn and daughter, Jody (Jayson) Pancoast and granddaughter, Josie Pancoast; brothers, Ralph (Marion) Sturm and Harvey (Lynn) Sturm as well as numerous extended family, relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Helen and Frank Sturm. A Private Celebration of  Merle’s life will take place. Memorial donations in Merle’s name may be made directly to HALO, 28 Halifax Way SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5G4.  (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, Crematorium & Reception Facility.