Merle H. “Chief” Carder, 94, passed away September 24, 2016. Born in Gaddistown, GA to Joseph and Hazel (Dodd) Carder, he was the oldest of 13 children. He resided in the Akron area most of his life. Merle retired from Ford Motor Co. in 1981 and was a U. S. Navy Chief, serving during World War II and the Korean Conflict. Merle’s extensive military service included the P. T Boat Squadron 22, Korea Destroyer DD 710 USS Gearing, and 23 years as Chief Master of Arms for Dan St. Training Center. He was Post commander and chaplain of Airport Post #8975. He also belonged to Military Order of Cooties Pup Tent #10, Dads of Foreign Service #102 and he volunteered at Brecksville V. A. hospital.  He was honored for 27 years (7500 hours) of volunteerism with various veteran organizations.   He was called “Chief” by everyone who knew him.

Preceded in death by his wife, Authena, he will be sadly missed by sons, Gary (Sandy) and Ken; daughter, Donna (Dan) Prior; grandchildren, Holly, Laura, Scott, Kevin, Julie, Stephen, Nathan, and McKenna; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Friends may call Saturday, October 1, 2016 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Arlington Memorial Baptist Church, 2330 E. Market St. The funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00 noon with Rev. Dave Bogue officiating. Interment with military honors by Mogadore VFW Post # 8487 at Hillside Memorial Park.

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