Margaret R. "Peggy" Merklin, 80, of Hutchinson, died March 9, 2025, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. She was born November 2, 1944, in Hugo, Colorado, to Archie and Isabell (Sutliff) Shouse.

Peggy graduated Burlington High School in Colorado and obtained her associates degree from Seward County Community College. For many years, she worked as a teller at Equity Bank in Liberal, KS. Peggy also worked as a district clerk for Seward County. She enjoyed quilting and singing in her church choir. Peggy had a love for flowers and spent many hours gardening and planting her favorite flowers. She also loved researching her family's history and acquiring knowledge about the past.

On June 4, 1961, she married Marlin Merklin, in Burlington, Colorado. They shared nearly 64 years together before her death.

Peggy is survived by: beloved husband, Marlin Merklin of Hutchinson; daughter, Lori and husband Larry Bauerle of Hutchinson; sister, Kay Walsh of AZ; brother, Johnny Shouse of CO; 6 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; son, Michael Alan Merklin; and sister, Marilyn Hendricks.

Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Park Place Christian Church, 2600 N Adams St, Hutchinson, with Pastor Jerry Muncy officiating. Graveside service will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, March 17, 2025 at Restlawn Cemetery, 8955 HWY 83, Liberal, KS. Cremation has taken place.

Arrangements made with Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.