Merlin Batykefer

Merlin Anthony Batykefer, 88, of Slippery Rock, passed away in Pittsburgh on Saturday, May 8, 2021, following an extended illness.

Merlin was born on Sept. 14, 1932, in Belleview, and was the son of Merlin Samuel Batykefer and Florence Tressa Weiss Batykefer. He was married to Eleanore Irene Hefferman on Oct. 26, 1996, and she preceded in death on April 18, 2013.

He was a self-employed truck driver and a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Forestville. He enjoyed gardening and winemaking.

Survivors include two sons, Merlin Batykefer of Slippery Rock and Keith (Jean) Batykefer of West View; two daughters, Evonne “Bonnie” Batykefer and Lorraine (Paul) Kikuchi both of Baldwin; stepdaughter, Brenda I. (Rick) Weber of Grove City; stepson, Bryan W. McDeavitt of Grove City; two sisters, Dolores Hartman of Mt. Nebo, and Jane Hartle of Baden; brother, James (Elna) Batykefer of Lincoln University, Pa.; 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one expected great-grandchild.

He is preceded in death by his parents and wife.

Batykefer — Family of Merlin Anthony Batykefer, who died Saturday, May 8, 2021, will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Smith Funeral Home in Slippery Rock.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Smith Funeral Home, 421 New Castle St. Slippery Rock with the Rev. Fr. Jack Batykefer, cousin of Merlin presiding.

Interment will be in Slippery Rock Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the hospice service of your choice.