He was born in Hartford City on March 15, 1940 to Clester "Peg" and Georgette (Lennon) Rhodes. He graduated from Hartford City High School in 1958 and attended Ball State University. Merrill worked for General Motors in the Fabricating Division and Security, retiring in 1995. He also served 6 years in the National Guard. Survivors include two sons, Marty (Kelli) Rhodes, Indianapolis and Chris (Tina) Rhodes, Auburn; two brothers, Rik (Linda) Rhodes and Nick (Beth) Rhodes, both of Hartford City and seven grandchildren, Payton, Meredith, Dustin, Olivia, Sian, Brian, Easton Rhodes. The funeral service will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, February 29, 2016 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Jean Ann Rhodes Memorial Baseball Scholarship, c/o Blackford County Community Foundation, P.O. Box 327, Hartford City, IN 47348.