CATARACT
Harold (Bud) D. Merchant of Cataract passed away peacefully at home with his wife of 64 years by his side on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. Bud was born in Maxwell, IN to Fred and Lesta Merchant on August 11, 1933. Bud enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 15, 1953 during the Korean War and was with the 7th Armored Division in Germany until honorably discharged. He met the love of his life, Arlene (Davis), and was married at the Christian Church in Fortville, IN on January 21, 1957. He loved the area around Cataract Falls and moved there with his family in 1971. He was a heavy equipment operator for several contractors in Indianapolis and retired at 62 as a loader operator for France Stone in Cloverdale. After retirement, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with family. He was a proud patriot who loved God and his country. Bud was a gold status member of the Eden Masonic Lodge #477 and the American Legion Post #285 of Spencer. He will always be remembered as a person of deep convictions and integrity in everything he did. He believed his word was his contract and expected the same honesty from others. He loved children and dogs; he always said as long as they liked him he didn’t care how many adults did. He was the person that family turned to in times of need or trouble, because he lived to be that for others.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lesta (Reed) Merchant and his brothers, Paul Eugene Merchant and Larry Charles Merchant. He is survived by his beloved wife, Arlene; sons, Donald (Tracy) Merchant and Brian Merchant; grandchildren John Paul Levi Merchant, Anthony (Kayla) Merchant, Adam (Brianna) Merchant, Jessica Merchant, and Lacy Merchant; great grandchildren Rosealie, Victoria, Alani, Madison, Lydia, Piper, Jack, Kennedy, Mattee, Bentlee; siblings Kenneth (Nancy) Merchant, Doris (James) Hammond, and Betty Floyd.
Bud was a very private man and kept his relationship with God to himself. His favorite passage was Matthew 6 : 5-8. He donated to many organizations over the years that included Veteran organizations, Native American children’s groups, and animal protection agencies. Memorial contributions can be made in his name to Riley Children’s Hospital or the Owen County Humane Society. As per his request, graveside services will be held at Hudson Hills Cemetery 1577 Childers Rd. Gosport, IN 47433 on Saturday November 20th at 2 p.m.
West &Parrish &Pedigo Funeral Home of Spencer will be handling the arrangements.
Online condolences may be shared with Bud’s family at www.westparrishpedigo.com.
