Merlin Reid

Merlin is on the right with the snappy socks.

Merlin Reid, age 98, of Eldora, Iowa, was born on December 28, 1927, in Eldora and peacefully moved on to greener pastures on July 18, 2026, at Eldora Specialty Care Center.

A memorial fellowship will be held on Saturday, August 15, from noon to 2:00 p.m. at Dorothy’s Senior Center, 1306 17th Ave, Eldora, IA 50627. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather during this time of fellowship to share memories, offer comfort, and honor a life lovingly remembered.

After graduating from Eldora High School in 1945, Merlin began his career as a teller at Hardin County Savings Bank, where he worked until 1961. He then joined Farm Service in Eldora, becoming one of its leading salesmen and remaining there until his retirement in 1993. Beyond his career, Merlin found great joy in farming, raising cattle, and owning The Little Acorn Ranch in rural Hardin County. He took great pride in his work, the land he loved, and the life he built for his family.

Merlin will be lovingly remembered by his children, Nancy Kramer, Virginia Hyde, David Reid, and Daniel Reid; his stepchildren, Kathy Gleason, Lori Geary, Shannon Rogers, and Amy DeHerrera; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. His family was his greatest legacy, and he treasured the time spent with each generation.

He was preceded in death by his father, Guy Webster Reid; his mother, Ella (Kebschull) Reid; his brother, Maynard Reid; his beloved wife, Sharon Reid; his daughter, Fran Maples; and his son, Walter Hyde.

A Remembrance Service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eldora Specialty Care, in care of Diana Stowe.