William Walter Merricle, 69 of Lima, passed away Saturday, February 5, 2022, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer.

William was born June 12, 1952 in Lima, to Walter and Dorothy (Hoff) Merricle, who preceded him in death. On December 27, 2001, he married Jerri (Barnett) Merricle, who survives him in Lima.

William was a wordsmith. As a published poet, he was passionate about his writing. In the 70s, he was featured in The Lima News as an up-and-coming talent. At that time, he was active in the Columbus and Toledo area poetry groups and in the 80s, performed in the Cleveland scene. In the 80s, he moved to Baltimore, Maryland and immersed himself in the writers’ culture which was booming – to live life and hone his skills. William remained active in the Ohio poetry groups throughout the years and performed shortly before he became ill. He’s published many books throughout his 40 year poetry career – many with “Crisis Chronicles Press” – and was a patron of NIGHTBALLET Press. He was a member of Ohioana, the Writer’s Resource center of Toledo, and the Ohio Poetry Association.

William was a hard worker who finished his work career out with more than 20 years at Plastipack Manufacturing where he enjoyed both his work in Quality Control and the people with which he worked. But he always admitted he worked so he could write. William enjoyed all types of music, reading and spending time in his yard, which he called his sanctuary.

In addition to his wife, William is survived by his step-son, Tobin Atkinson; step-daughter, Stephanie (Jesse) Edens, seven step-grandchildren; sister, Irene (Wayne) Plummer; brother, David (Kathy) Merricle and a niece and three nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his step-son, Jesse Renner.

Memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, February 11, 2022 at CHILES-LAMAN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES – SHAWNEE CHAPEL.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In William’s memory, read a book, take a moment and listen to nature, hug somebody you love and think outside the box.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Lima Public Library or the Allen County Humane Society.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.