Merrell Charles Maris

Merrell Charles Maris, passed away on May 7, 2025, in Imperial, Nebraska, at the age of 97. Born on April 21, 1928, in Birmingham, Alabama to Ethel (Baty) Maris. Merrell was adopted at the tender age of three by his mother’s husband, Jim Maris.

Merrell’s career began in shipyards but soon took an exciting turn as he became an MSP tester for dairy cattle. In the early 1950s, he relocated to Wauneta, Nebraska, where he sought employment with the Lapps and later joined the Wauneta Roller Mill. His role involved packaging and distributing flour across the country, providing him with numerous opportunities to travel to many places, including Fort Lupton, Colorado, and central Kansas. He often took friends and his cherished golf clubs along on these trips.

In Wauneta, Merrell met Emma Jean Maxfield while she was keeping the books at the mill. Their connection blossomed into a beautiful marriage celebrated at the Methodist Church in Wauneta on June 25, 1954. Together, they shared a life filled with love.

Merrell was a man of many passions and interests. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed bowling, playing cards, shooting pool and hunting. A member of Eden Church south of Wauneta, Merrell cherished the opportunity to sing in church, bringing joy not only to himself but also to those around him.

His personality was characterized by a playful spirit, delighting in telling stories and engaging in practical jokes that left laughter in their wake. He will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Merrell is survived by his niece, Mary Lisa Dudek, and his nephews, Jeff (Kaye) Maxfield of Taylorville, IL and Jim (Connie) Maxfield.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Ethel Maris and wife Emma Jean.

A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 10:30AM at the Wauneta Methodist Church with Pastor Gary Hunt officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Wauneta, NE.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Merrell’s name to the Wauneta Senior Center.