Merle E. Guinn

After a full life of 82 years, Merle Guinn entered into eternal rest, at his home, on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. He was born in Amarillo, Texas on August 17, 1939 to the home of Andy and Thelma Guinn. The family moved to Santa Rosa and Merle started grade school there. In 1958 he joined the Marine Corps; he served in numerous locations and capacities around the world. He was a Vietnam Veteran and Purple Heart recipient. He returned to Santa Rosa to resume his life as a rancher, raising a fine herd of Charolais cattle. In addition to ranching and farming, Merle worked in large and small highway construction projects including bridges and dams as a general superintendent. He is preceded in death by his parents, his infant son: Nathan, brothers: Gene, Bud, Glenn and Billy Earl, along with sisters: Anna Hatley and Viola Vigil. Survivors include his wife Connie, daughter: Sharon, sons: Steven Robert (Coreen) and Xavier (Melanie), and grandchildren: Kenny, Shy, Merleah, Lily and Alison. Also surviving Merle are his sisters: Louise McFarlin, Bobby Jean Guinn and Margaret Adler, along with many, much loved nephews and nieces. Pallbearers will include: Simon Serrano, Fred Hinker, Leroy Apodaca, Lou Robichaud, Wayne Delaney, Martin Ortega, Seth Fuchs and Joel Fuchs. Honorary Pallbearers are: Ely Madrid, Ricky Flores, Scott Barnhart, Bob Phillips, Norman Boudreaux and Tony Ulibarri. This generous, kind man of strong faith is honored and loved. Services will be at The First Baptist Church in Santa Rosa, on Friday, August 5, 2022 at 11am, with Ethan Fuchs officiating. Interment with full military honors will take place at Evergreen Cemetery. A potluck meal at Blue Hole Convention Center following with meat provided. Services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369. To place an online condolence or tribute, please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com.