Merle D. Motter

Merle Deane Motter Sr., 83, of Venus passed away unexpectedly December 29, 2014.

Born on March 8, 1932 in Venus he was the son of Ora and Ethel Wagner Motter.

He was a Shippenville High School graduate.

On June 16, 1956 Merle was married to the former Jane M. Ward Motter who preceded him in death on March 2, 2009.

He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church Venus PA.

Merle was drafted into the US Army in 1952. He spend his service time in Germany during the korean war and then joined the Army reserves where served for over 35 years as Petroleum Supply Handler.

After his service Merle became a foreman for President Oil Lease in President PA and retired from there.

He and his wife were foster parents for many children for many years. They received many awards for their time and service. He was also an avid hunter and enjoyed spending his time in the outdoors.

Merle was a member of the Odd Fellows Club in Venus, and he was also a VFW Member.

He is survived by his children: Merle Motter Jr. and wife Ruth of Oil City; Ralph Motter of Oil City; Maria Hegburg and husband Don of Clarion; Charlie Motter; Michelle Henry and husband Todd of Bellefonte, PA; and Tina Britt of Macon, GA. Also surviving are fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and a brother James Motter and wife Chris of Guys Mills, PA.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jane, three grandchildren Tim, Daniel, and Kierra; a sister Geraldine Roemer , an infant sister Alice and brothers: John, Don, Ralph and Paul.

Friends will be received at the Faller Funeral Home, Inc. in Fryburg on Friday, January 2, 2015 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. 

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 3, 2015 at Faith Lutheran Church in Venus, with Rev. John A. Wood Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church presiding.

Interment will be in the Heckathorn Church Cemetery following the service.

Memorials in Merle's honor may be made to Diabetes Association, Venango County VNA or Faith Lutheran Church.

Please visit www.fallerfuneralhome.com to share your memories and photos and offer your condolences. 

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