Merle A. Kezar, 78, of Hot Springs, SD, died on Monday, July 13, 2009, at the V.A. Hospital in Hot Springs after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born February 19, 1931 to Norbert and Blanche (Pike) Kezar, in Belvidere, South Dakota. A graduate of Belvidere High School, Merle enlisted in the Air Force and enjoyed 21 years of service, traveling the world and retiring as a Major. After the Air Force, Merle moved to Derby, KS, and went on to graduate from Wichita State University, (Wichita, KS), with a B.A. in Accounting. In retirement, Merle moved back to South Dakota, where he made many new friends and reconnected with hometown friends and family. Merle truly enjoyed competitive games - his favorites being golf and cribbage. Merle played both the organ and the guitar, but making music with friends was a highlight of his life.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lois Jean.


Survivors include: Best friend and companion Bonnie Mack of Hot Springs; brother, Norman Kezar of Edgemont, SD; son, Roger E. Kezar, and wife Robyn; daughter, Catherine J. Clark and husband Robert - all of Derby, KS. Grandchildren include James Bayless and wife Holly of Mulvane; Alexander Kezar, and Elizabeth Kezar, of Derby KS.


Services will be held at McColley's Chapel of the Hills at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, July 18, 2009, in Hot Springs SD with Pastor Loyd Nielson officiating. Interment will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 20, 2009 at the Black Hills National Cemetery, near Sturgis, SD. Military Honors are provided by United States Air Force Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers the family would like to suggest memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.