Merlin Wayne Thayer, 72, passed away on January 6, 2026. He was born on January 20, 1953 in McCook, NE to Bobby Thayer and Hazel (Verbeck) Thayer.

Merlin retired from Kodak where he worked for over 40 years. In his free time, he loved fishing, camping, and four-wheeling, and he was an avid Broncos football fan.

He is survived by his children Tracy Thayer, Christie Flippin (Art), and Randy Thayer (Tammy); sister Kathy Thayer, grandchildren Megan, Rebecca, Nicole, Valerie, and Ryan; and great-grandchildren Raelynn, Jagger, Elly, Cruz, Brayden, and Kayson.

He is preceded in death by his wife Shirley Thayer, father Bobby Thayer, mother Hazel Thayer, and brother Les Thayer.

Cremation is entrusted to Samaritan Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.samaritanfunerals.com.