Merlin Deloit Philson

HAMILTON - Merlin Deloit Philson, 87, of Hamilton passed away June 12, 2013 at the Marcus Daily Hospice and Palliative Care Center. Merlin was born June 2, 1926 in Harlan, IA to James H. and Cecile L. (Sunderland) Philson the 3rd of 4 children.

In the 1930's Merlin moved with his parents to California. Merlin started high school in San Juan Capistrano where he served as freshman class president. After moving to Santa Anna the next year, he completed the last 3 years of high school in 2 years, graduating at 16. Merlin then worked at Boeing until he could enlist in the Army Air Corps at age 17. After completing an aerial photography course, he became an instructor for the same course. Merlin served in that position through World War II. He continued his career in the Air Force as a supply sergeant and then as a recruiter. Merlin retired from the Air Force after 26 years of service. After retiring, he owned and ran both a second hand store and an auction business.

In 1947, Merlin Married Shirley Ellison in Colorado. Together they raised their 2 children and they later divorced. In 1992 Merlin married Barbara Bock and she passed away in 2007. In 2009, Merlin married Patsy Childs Jensen in Great Falls, MT. She survives as does his daughter, Barbara Walker or Orcutt, CA and his son Phillip and wife Rhonda of Yucaipa CA. Merlin is also survived by his 4 grandchildren, Dennis Marshal of Kent WA, Melinda (Shane) Amaral of Orcutt CA, Angelique Philson and Jeremy Philson both of Yucaipa, CA; and his 2 great-grandsons, Austin and Colson Amaral. Merlin is also survived by Patsy's 5 children, David Brow of Mashpee, MA, Barbara and John Gillispie of Helena, Jennifer McLaurin of San Tan Valley, AZ, and Brian Brow and Joseph Brow both of Great Falls, MT; and her 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, his older sister, Virginia, his brother James and his infant sister Jenene.