Merle Ellis Dettrow

Merle Ellis Dettrow, 84, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home.

He was born on April 1, 1942, the son of James Ellis Dettrow and Cleo Pauline (Mitchell) Dettrow, who both preceded him in death. He married Dorothy (Smith) Dettrow on June 19, 1963, in LaGrange, Indiana, and she preceded him in death on October 2, 2021.

Merle had many hobbies and interests. He loved a good card game with friends and was an avid bowler. He loved to play softball and enjoyed teaching his three oldest boys how to play sports. He supported his youngest son Jason in his flower shop business in Convoy and watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. He loved to laugh and smile and did anything he could to help a friend.

Merle is survived by three sons, Norm (Deb) Dettrow and Jim (Trish) Dettrow, both of Van Wert, and Jason (Nate) Vanover of Convoy; 11 grandchildren: Stacie (Matt) Couch, Brad Dettrow, Chloe Dettrow, Courtney (Cory) Ramsey, Emily Dettrow, Abbey Dettrow, Chase Dettrow, Trey Dettrow, Griffin Dettrow, Jordan (Rachael) Dettrow, and Megan Dettrow; great grandchildren: Madison (Keaton) Brown, Landen, and Kenzie Couch, Locklen Yenser, Mylee and Maverick Dettrow, Baylen, Bryson and Bowynn Ramsey, Josie, Jack and Jayce Dettrow, and Ezrayla, and two sisters, Ozzy Olive Holek of Defiance, and Doris (Earl) Witham of Elkhart, Indiana.

He worked for Dana Incorporated in Antwerp and was the head union steward. Merle was a member of the American Legion Post #178 of Van Wert and attended the Salvation Army Church. He proudly served in the U.S. Marines Corps.

In addition to his parents, his wife Dorothy, Merle was preceded in death by his son, Billy “Joe” Dettrow , a son-in-law, Kelly Burns and five sisters, Sissy, Connie, Gladys, Pauline and Birdie.

A memorial service will be held at Cowan & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services at 6 p.m. Tuesday,  July 28, with visitation prior to the service from 3-6 p.m. Officiant Nate Vanover will lead the service and military honors will immediately follow in the parking lot.

In keeping in Merle’s wishes to support his son’s business, floral and memorial keepsake orders may be directed to his son’s floral shop, The Secret Garden in Convoy.

Online condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.