Merlin R. Zimmerly, 93, of Lima died at 1:35 pm June 7, 2011 at Lost Creek Care Center, Lima. He was born October 22, 1917 in Richland Township to Melvin R. and Lavina Gratz Zimmerly. On March 5, 1941 he married R. Cleora Burkholder and she survives.

Mr. Zimmerly was a dairy farmer and a life member of the Holsiein-Friesion Association of America. He worked for Cookson Marathon and retired from the Ohio Dept. of Transportation in 1986. He was a member of Lima Mennonite Church and was a past president of the Allen County Dairy Board.

Survivors also include a son, Larry (Kathryn) Zimmerly of Lima, a granddaughter, Nancy A. (William) Swisher of Bluffton, two step grandchildren, Christal L. Miller of Cincinnati, Michael L. Miller of Columbus, three great grandchildren, Andrew, Candace and Nicolas Swisher of Bluffton and a brother, Ronald Zimmerly.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 am Saturday at Chiles-Laman Funeral Home, Bluffton. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Bluffton. Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 pm Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Lima Mennonite Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.