G. Merl Caldwell, 87, of Hutchinson, died April 3, 2012, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Merl was born March 4, 1925, in Hutchinson, the son of Lester and Florence Smith Caldwell. A lifelong Hutchinson resident, he was a 1942 graduate of Hutchinson High School, attended Hutchinson Junior College, and after his military service, attended the University of Kansas. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps, as he was a pilot of C-47 Skytrains during WWII. Merl was a member of First United Methodist Church, and the Double Circle Sunday school class of the church. Merl owned and operated Caldwell Greenhouse, along with his brother.

Merl married Jo Freeto on Nov. 18, 1945, in Hutchinson. She survives. Other survivors include: two sons, Richard Caldwell and wife Cindy of Lawrence, and John Caldwell and wife Lucy of Queens, NY; three daughters, Jan Higgins and husband Dan of Leawood, Kathy Walker of Hutchinson, and Nancy Corkins and husband Bob of Lawrence; a brother, Don Caldwell and wife Frances of Hutchinson; 12 grandchildren, Kip Higgins, Corey Higgins, Ashley Caldwell, Emily Caldwell, Sarah Caldwell, Hannah Caldwell, Jennie Marsh, Ben Walker, Kristen Kunze, Nathan Walker, Jon Corkins, and Sam Corkins; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, June Caldwell.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, April 7, 2012, at First United Methodist Church with Reverend Mark Conard presiding. Inurnment will be in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson. Military graveside services will be provided by the U.S. Army Honor Guard. A register book may be signed from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church or Hutchinson Public Library, sent in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. Friends may visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a condolence for Merl's family.