Merlin “Merle” Wood, 93, of Warren, passed away at the Rouse Home on July 18, 2026. Merlin was born on September 18, 1932, to the late Arlie and Marie Wood. Merle was a hard-working man, beginning work after finishing the sixth grade. Most recently, Merle worked in manufacturing for Solar Electric, manufacturing lightbulbs.

Merle married the love of his life, Charlotte (Ristau) Wood, on December 19, 1970. She preceded him in death on May 13, 2021.

Merle was a member of Covenant Methodist Church. Merle was a handyman at heart, always building something. He was clean and organized. Merle would always separate bolts and screws into coffee cans, and could tell you where it was when it was needed. He enjoyed riding his lawn mower, even if it meant getting it stuck on occasion. In his younger years, Merle enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his love for the outdoors carried on throughout his life. He was usually caught singing or humming a tune, most often an old country song he knew by heart. Most importantly, Merle was a great family man who loved his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and his great grandchildren.

Merlin is survived by his children; Beverly (Dave) Graham, Bonnie Gorton, Brian (April Knotts) Wood, and Brenda (Rich) Mckee. Merle is survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Merle is also survived by some of his 13 siblings.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife; his daughter, Karen Wood; and many siblings.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Peterson- Blick Funeral Home, Inc. 1003 Pennsylvania Ave. E. Warren, Pa 16365. Friends and family are invited to Funeral Home on Thursday, July 23, from 11AM-1PM for visitation followed by a funeral service at 1PM.

There will be a private interment at Weiler Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made to the family at Petersonblickfuneralhome.com or at our Facebook Page.