MERLE D. BAHRUTH, 72, of Arkansas City, passed away Friday afternoon, June 13, 2008, at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.

Born on August 24, 1935 in Arkansas City, he was the son of Ira Lee and Edna Faye (Conley) Bahruth. He was raised in the Arkansas City community and graduated high school from Geuda Springs High School. He went on to attend and graduate from Cowley County Community College.

Merle was united in marriage to Betty Walker in Arkansas City on May 11, 1963. He was a farmer all his life and loved what he did. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

His family includes:
His wife: Betty of the home;
His sons: Greg Bahruth and Russell Bahruth both of Arkansas City;
His daughters: Tammy Dvorak and husband, Tad of South Haven; and Sandy Short and husband, Ben of Winfield;
His brother: Clarence Bahruth of Wichita;
His sister: Betty Quisenberry of California; and
His grandchildren: Tipton and Candace Holloway, Bret and Piper Short, Cassie,Coltin, Cade and Cabrie Dvorak.

In addition to his parents, Merle was preceded in death by his brothers, Phil, Ira, Bill, Jim and John Bahruth, and his sister Helen Schisler.

Graveside Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday morning, June 17, 2008 at 10:00 A.M. at Geuda Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday from 5 to 9 P.M. at Miles Funeral Service.

A Memorial has been established in Mr. Bahruth's name for the American Diabetes Foundation. Contributions may be made through Miles Funeral Service.

Online condolences may be made at www.milesfuneralservice.com.