Theodore James (Ted) Merwin

CORVALLIS - Theodore James (Ted) Merwin, 78, of Corvallis passed away Friday, January 13, 2012 at his home of natural causes. He was born February 22, 1933 in Emporia, Kansas the son of Dale C. and Ruth Merwin.

Ted graduated from Hayward High in California in 1950. He then attended automotive trade schools for the next 3 years, graduating from 6 of them. Ted also attended the University of California, Berkeley and received a vocational teaching degree for seven different vocations.

Ted married La Dona A. Smith on April 27, 1951. His work over the years included being a military drive train expert, an automotive mechanic, a machinist, auto body repair, an insurance adjuster of State Farm, a truck owner/operator and a vocational teacher. Ted was also a Lieutenant in the Manteca, CA Volunteer Rural Fire Department for 33 years.

He was a member of the National Rifle Association. Ted was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, La Dona; and his youngest son, Theodore D. Merwin. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Harrison of Corvallis; his sons, James M. Merwin and David F. Merwin of Stevensville, Rick D. Merwin of Hamilton, Don Harrison of Hamilton, Jeff Harrison of Corvallis and John Harrison of Lolo; his brother, Darrel Merwin of Arizona; his sisters, Pamela Merwin and Thelma Laws of Hamilton; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Montana and California.

The family suggests that memorials be made in Ted's name to the Corvallis United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 37, Corvallis, MT 59828.