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Merle E. Van Note

Merle E. Van Note

GOWANDA — Merle E. Van Note, 98, of Union Street, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the Bertrand Chaffee Hospital in Springville.

Born in Lawtons, N.Y., the son of Kelso and Doris (Britt) Van Note, April 19, 1924.

Merle was a World War II U.S. Army veteran who honorably served his country from 1943-46.

Merle married the former Mary E. Asquith on May 6, 1950, they were married by Mary’s father, the Rev. Albert Asquith at the United Methodist Church in Buffalo.

A sub-foreman for National Fuel, Merle retired after nearly 35 years of service, he worked out of the Hamburg National Fuel office and was a heavy equipment operator .

Merle E. Van Note

Merle was a proud member of the Masonic lodge, a fraternity which was a big part of not only his life but his father, brothers and sons life also. Merle was a 55 plus year member and past master of Phoenix Lodge 262 F&AM of Gowanda. He also was a member of the Royal Arch and Commandry, he was the recipient of various citations and awards including the Dedication of Service Award through the lodge. Merle was past fire chief for the Collins Volunteer Fire Department. Prior to his beloved wife Mary passing away Jan. 16, 2013, they enjoyed traveling and family camping. Merle was one of a handful of World War II living veterans in the area and a proud veteran at that.

Survivors include his and Mary’s children: David (Carlotta) Van Note of Eden, Dennis (Bonnie) Van Note of Ocala, Fla., Rebecca (Wayne) Troutman of Edmond, Okla., and Kathy Van Note of Gowanda; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; along with a brother, Carl (Darlene) Van Note of Michigan; and several nieces and nephews also survive .

Besides his parents, wife, Mary of 63 years, Merle was preceded in death by a baby daughter Van Note and a daughter, Terri (husband, Todd still living) Nowicki of Gowanda, a granddaughter, Amy Sanchez (Wayne and Rebecca’s daughter); brothers; Wilford, Wayne, Melvin, Harold, Charles and Elmer Van Note; along with a sister, Zelda Asquith.

Friends may call at the SCHINDLER FUNERAL HOME, 44 Center St., Gowanda from 4-7- p.m. (a Masonic Service will be held at 6:30 p.m) Thursday where funeral services will be held Friday, May 6, 2022 at 11 a.m. with full military honors. Interment in the Collins Center Cemetery .

If desired, memorials may be made to a local charity of ones choice