Robert “Merrill” Alling (age 82), beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully at home on April 25, 2016. Merrill was born in Fairview, MT in 1933. He had three sisters, Shirley (deceased), Denise & Sally. He graduated from Fairview High School in 1951, excelling in sports and music and graduated from the University of Montana with a B.S. in Business/Marketing. He worked for the IRS for 32 years and pursued his passion in antique trade for another 25 years following his retirement. He was an active member of First Lutheran Church in Helena for over 50 years.
Merrill married Ruth Ellwein in Sidney, MT in 1953. She was his forever sweet heart for 63 years. To this union were born five beautiful children. Merrill is survived by his wife, Ruth and children Jeffrey (Darla) Alling, Timothy (Jane) Alling, Jennifer (William) Charles and Sarah Alling, grandchildren, Daniel, Kevin, Kristin Alling, Christopher (Kimberlee) Charles, Danae (Jason) Miley, and Shawn Self and great grandchildren Aiden & Viola Charles and many dear nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Stephanie Alling and grandson, Jason Charles.
Merrill’s gentle spirit was reflected in his love of nature, music, and faith in God. An avid bridge player, he enjoyed the family card games on “Friday nights” and became a force to be reckoned with in Rummikub. Merrill loved to write poetry, watch old movies, and cuddle with his wife and grand dogs. His stories of western pioneers and passion for Native American history will not be forgotten. We will miss you, but we have a lifetime of joyful memories.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 3, 2016 at First Lutheran Church, 2231 East Broadway St. A reception will immediately follow in the fellowship hall of the church. Memorials are suggested to the Frist Lutheran School, 2231 East Broadway St., Helena, or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Merrill.
Melvin and Sheryl DUff says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jeff, Darla and the rest of your family…We love you and pray for God’s comfort to surround you.
Leona Zaharko says
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Alling’s passing. He and Ruth were 2 of my favorite customers at CVS in the Lundy center. He always had a big smile and a sharp wit. I will dearly miss him.
Emma Ellwein says
What a wonderful man. I will miss his happy soul! I’m very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with all of you!
Terry Lamping says
Thoughts and prayers to the Alling family. So very sorry for your loss.
Butch Renders says
My heart goes out to the Alling family. Merrilll was such a nice guy so easy to visit and aways a smile and fun to be around. I also must thank him for how kind he was with my brother Joe especially in the later years. We have lost one of the good guys!
Sally and Herb says
Merrill was a wonderful brother. In growing up he took care of me and I took care of him. Herb always felt he was like a brother to him. We both love him dearly and will miss him terribly. Our hearts are heavy. We send all our love to Ruthie and all the kids.
Denny and family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the Allings. I will always remember the stories of native Montana history from Uncle Merrill. We always looked forward to Merrill and Ruths visit to New Hampshire. We will miss him !!