Myrtus Merritt “Butch” Dierks

Myrtus Merritt “Butch” Dierks

Myrtus Merritt “Butch” Dierks, 81, North Manchester, passed away Feb. 24, 2024, at Parkview Whitley Hospital in Columbia City.

Born in Warsaw on May 1, 1942, he was the son of the late Arnold W. and Snowden Joan (Custer) Dierks.

He graduated from Sidney High School in 1960 and then served his country in the United State Army. He moved back to the Sidney area after being honorably discharged and married Marcia J. Lenwell on Oct. 11, 1964. The two remained married for 30 years and shared two children, Julie and Eric. During that time, he worked for RR Donnelley as a cylinder maker before retiring.

God, family, and country were always important to him. He was a member of Liberty Mills United Methodist Church, American Legion Post 258 in Pierceton, and American Legion Post 286 in North Manchester. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and birdwatching, but he loved being with his family most of all. His quick-witted sense of humor will be missed by those who knew him best.

The loving memory of Myrtus “Butch” Dierks will be forever cherished by his children: Julie (Elmer “Mike”) Oaks, Sidney; and Eric (Amy) Dierks, Zimmerman, Minn.; brothers: Phil (Marcia) Dierks, South Whitley; and Kris (Beverly) Dierks, Claypool; sisters: Joie (Jeff) Lotz, South Whitley; and Debbie (Mark) Crapeau, Healdsburg, Calif.; and four grandchildren: Kaitlyn Dierks, Brandon Oaks, Conner Dierks, and Hannah Oaks. Butch was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Steven J. Dierks.

Family and friends may call from 1-3 p.m. Friday, March 1, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Paul Rupert officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Milford Cemetery in Milford.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Myrtus “Butch” Dierks, memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 286, 215 E. Main St., North Manchester, Indiana 46962; or American Legion Post 258, 104 N. First St., Pierceton, Indiana 46562.

McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, is handling arrangements.