Merton was born November 29, 1925 at Casper, WY, to Harry and Norma (Friend) Wright. They moved to rural Meade County where Merton attended the Stoneville School. He worked for neighboring farmers and ranchers as a young man. He drove trucks for a road construction crew for several years. Now we all know there is a proper way to transport horses, then there is the Wright way. Merton's son Ken, acquired a colt at the state fair in Miles City. After just purchasing a brand new Corvair car, Merton had to somehow transport the newly acquired pet. He removed the back seat, and strapped it on the trunk over the motor, to obtain space for the colt and four children. With a brand new car and allowing for easy cleanup he carefully placed a tarp and hay in the backseat area. With the limited seating, two buckets converted to children's chairs between the colt's legs. As you can image the gas attendant's reaction of an unusual passenger. The 200 mile trip from Miles City to Boulder Canyon turned out successfully.

In 1963, Merton moved to Portland, OR. He was employed as a marine mechanic/welder in the Portland shipyards for 30 years. Upon retirement, he moved back to Nisland, SD, where he enjoyed his family.

Merton Wright, 84, Nisland, died Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at the Belle Fourche Health Care Center.

Merton enjoyed deer and elk hunting, fishing, working on cars and wood projects. During his retirement he took a trip to Jerusalem. While in the desert, the tour bus broke down and he volunteered his mechanical skills to get the bus running again, saving the day for all the tourists.

Survivors include his son Ken (Donna) Wright, Milwaukie, OR; daughters, LaVonne (Eli) Stephens, Pendleton, OR, Bev (Ben) Lewis, Nisland, Judy (Ray) Dell, Nisland; one brother, Howard (Lola) Wright, Belle Fourche; also 18 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister.