Olen Gene Merritt, age 78, of LaBelle, MO passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2023, in Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.  He was born March 21, 1945, in Ava, MO the son of Everet H. and Mary Easter Downing Merritt.

He was united in marriage to Tocie Wright on June 28, 1964, in Knox City, MO .

Surviving are his wife Tocie Merritt of LaBelle, MO, two children Terry (Sandy) Merritt of Eminence, MO and Patty (Jesse) Foutch of LaBelle, MO, three grandchildren, Julie, Jessica and Darrell, Jill and Justin, five great grandchildren, Ryan, Callie, London, Lylah and Brittan, several nieces and nephews and lifelong friends Joe and Donna Myers.  Olen was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, one sister, one daughter Evelyn and one granddaughter Christy.

Olen received his education at Ava, MO.  Olen had worked for Haldeman Feeds in LaBelle, MO for several years, worked as a truck driver for several years and worked at the Newark Rock Quarry until his retirement.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, horses and spending time with his grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 11 a.m. in the Knox City Cemetery.  Reverend Bradley Baker will officiate the services.  There will be no visitation.

Memorials are suggested to Western Lewis County Fire Protection Dist. And or the Knox City Assembly of God Church.  Memorials may be left at or mailed to Coder Funeral Chapel, P.O. Box 151, LaBelle, MO 63447.