Merritt S. House was born July 12th 1857 in Sandusky county near Fremont, Ohio, and died Nov. 23rd at Toledo, aged 52 years 4 months and 11 days. On Oct. 2nd 1879 he was united in marriage to Margaret Gonawein; to this union were born three children, Howard G., Virginia M., and Ray A.

Besides these children and his beloved wife he leaves his mother, two brothers and a host of friends to mourn their loss.

At the age of 21 he united with the Methodist church, and lived a faithful member until he was called to rest.

Twenty-six years ago he was stricken with paralysis and for the past six and a half years he has been an invalid during which time he endured great suffering.

Although compelled to endure severe pain almost constantly, and being confined to his bed, yet he was always cheerful, and frequently said, “It is my Master’s will, I shall not complain.”

His early education was obtained in the country schools, after which he attended the public schools at Fremont, and then Normal school at Worthington, Ohio.

He taught school for a period of seven years, after which he engaged in farming, the first two years just north of Fremont. He then purchased and moved on a farm two miles west of Belmore, where he remained until his health began to fail. He then sold his farm and moved to Deshler and engaged in the mercantile business, being one of the firm of House, Heflinger & Co.

About seven years ago on account of fast-failing health he disposed of his interests in Deshler and bought a small farm just north of town, and erected a house and lived there two years, after which he again returned to Deshler for one year at the end of which time be moved to Toledo where he remained until his death. His life was a fine example of patient, christian endurance of physical suffering.