Merlyn Edwin McDonald, 88, of Gove, Kansas, passed away on August 24, 2026, at Gove County Medical Center.

Merlyn was born on March 8, 1938, in Shields, Kansas, to Howard Edward and Ruth Ina (Scott) McDonald. He spent his formative years in Gove, Kansas, and graduated from Gove High School with the class of 1956. Following high school, Merlyn attended Fort Hays Kansas State College for a short time before moving to Colorado to pursue business ownership.

Merlyn was a successful entrepreneur and owned and operated several businesses throughout the Littleton, Castle Rock, Parker, and Douglas County areas of Colorado. His businesses included a liquor store, bar and grill, doughnut shop, tuxedo rental shop, ceramic shop, and a pizza and arcade business.

On July 4, 1959, Merlyn married Marvel Valeree Albin. They later divorced. Merlyn found love again and married Betty Lou Shaw on November 18, 1978.

After his retirement, Merlyn returned to Gove, Kansas, where he and Betty made their home. He enjoyed working on and fixing up houses and attending auctions.

Merlyn is survived by his children, Stan McDonald of WaKeeney, Kansas; Scot McDonald of Colby, Kansas; and Brenda Hoopingarner (Lance) of Otis, Kansas; stepchildren, John Miller (Angela) of Abilene, Kansas, and Sterling Miller (Debi) of Wyoming; stepdaughters, Deidre Day (David) of Quinter, Kansas, and Tiffany Martin (Kenneth) of Oakley, Kansas; daughter-in-law, Tammy McDonald, Oberlin KS; 24 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren; and extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty; his son, Bryan McDonald; and his sister, Nola Marita Smith.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Gove Cemetery in Gove, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains and may be mailed to Schmitt Funeral Homes, 901 South Main Street, Quinter, KS 67752.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.