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Merle G. Sager

Nov. 5, 1928 - Mar. 23, 2023

Date of Service: Apr. 6, 2023

BURLEY – Merle Gene Sager, a 94-year-old resident of Burley, passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Parke View Rehabilitation and Care Center, in Burley.

Merle was born in Burley, Idaho, on November 5, 1928, to Harry and Mary Sager. Merle enjoyed working; he worked his whole life, and if he wasn’t working he was either hunting, fishing, or traveling with his wife. He married Donna Chugg on March 19, 1954. They had two children, Sondra and Frank; and two granddaughters, Rosa and Ellen, whom they loved very much. Rosa became his driver and fishing partner in the last 15 years.

Merle attended Southwest Elementary and graduated from Burley High School in 1948.

He enlisted in 1948 to the Burley National Guard, 116th Armored Calvary where he became tank commander earning the rank of Master Sergeant. He was honorably discharged in 1956.

He started working for Haight Motor Company at the age of 16, then moved on to Chisolm Brothers International Harvester after high school. He worked there for several years. Don, with the urging of Leo Handy of Handy Truck Lines, decided to start his own business after Chisolm’s sold out to Gem International Harvester. Merle’s Repair came into being in 1967, on Normal Avenue. Dad built his new shop on West Railroad Ave. in 1970, where he worked until retiring in 1987. Dad kept working on older vehicles in his home and helped Ray rebuild one-stroke engines.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Donna; his brothers, Ray and Melvin; and his sisters, Delpha and Dora. He is survived by his sister, Helen; children, Sondra (John) Klink, Frank (Linda) Sager; granddaughters, Rosa and Ellen Klink; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 6, at Burley United Methodist Church, located at 450 E. 27th St., in Burley, with Pastor Kenneth Haftorson officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home.

Condolences for Merle G. Sager

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From Terry & Karla Barnes:

Our sincere sympathy to all of Merle’s family. He was a wonderful person and a great member of our community. He always flashed a smile when we saw him. He and Donna were a beautiful couple. Our prayers are with you.
Love, Terry and Karla

From L D Sager:

Condolences to Frank, Sondra, and family for the loss of Dad-Grandpa. I had many adventures with Uncle Merle while fishing, hunting, horseback riding, 4-wheeling, camping, boating, and many more outdoor activities. I am grateful for the memories of Merle’s Rock, Three Bull Mountain, Seventeen Step Meadow, and a plethora of other landmark monikers so aptly named because of his escapades in the outdoors. He was always an eager and willing participant in our excursions into the wilds of America. Merle loved his family and the beauties of nature; both of which will miss his presence.

From Rick Sager:

Uncle Merle, you were always happy to see me. I'll always treasure the memories from our elk and deer hunting trips.

From David & Pam Smith :

Condolences to the family of Merle.
He was always the friendliest and cheerful person. He will be deeply missed.

From Sheila B. Adams:

Merle sat behind me in church but he leaned over the pew and I turned back so we could talk gardening and his latest fishing adventure. He had such a wonderful singing voice. He was so generous with garden produce. I will miss him and offer my condolences

From Brian and Debra Barlow:

Just wanted to let your family know and especially you John and Sondra that our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time of the loss of your father. Love you!!

From Garth and Jean Fremiller:

So sorry to har of Merle's passing! He was a delightful man! Garth and Jean

From Steve Highbarger:

Uncle Merle....I am so sad to see this. I will forever cherish our last visit.

From Jack and Mary Zarybnisky:

Merle was always very friendly and willing to talk when one saw him. When Frank was in Boy Scouts, Merle was always willing to help transport the scouts on different outings.

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