Merle E. Gifford of Belle Plaine, KS, passed away on the morning of June 11, 2013 at the St. Joseph Via Christi Medical Center at the age of 92.

Merle was the son of Howard and Bernice (Logan) Gifford and was born on October 14, 1920 in Wellington, KS . He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Evelyn Troutman.

Merle was a graduate of Wichita East High School. He married Iris Houser on December 14, 1941, one week after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1942 and served two years in the Pacific aboard the USS Enterprise (CV-6) the most decorated U.S. warship in history with a total of 20 Battle Stars out of a possible 21. Merle was aboard her during 13 of those battles

Merle is survived by his wife of 71 years, Iris of the home; George and Judy Gifford of Wichita, John and Jeannie Gifford of Wellington, Jack and Linda Gifford of Derby; 11 grandchildren; and 27 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at the Mulvane Christian Church on Saturday, June 15, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. Pastor Dane Massey and Pastor Ron Kuszak will officiate. Interment will follow the service at Council Hill Cemetery in rural Peck, KS.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday, June 14, 2013 from 1:00 – 8:00 P.M.

A memorial has been established with the Mulvane Christian Church, Mulvane, KS in lieu of flowers. Contributions can be left at the funeral home or mailed to the church.

Frank Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.