Merlyn Dunn

Merlyn Keith Dunn was born to Jessie & Bessie Dunn, October 27, 1931, at the family home in Mankato, KS, one of eleven kids. "He had a pretty rough life, but grew up fine," according to his wife of 67 years.

As a young man he would ride his bike out to court Charlene Higer, whom he wed at a young age. They started their married life in Superior, NE, moved to Colorado, and eventually to Wyoming. Four children were born to them.

Merlyn successfully intertwined his family life and his church passion. He loved the Lord, his wife, and kids. After being diagnosed with Beryllium poisoning and being told he had only a short time to live, Merlyn moved his family to Casper so it would be easier to breathe. In 1961 he took what he thought would be his final hike up in the mountains above Lander to meet some friends. Part way up the mountain he realized that he was breathing well and had been healed of the poisoning. Right there he dedicated his life to the Lord and from that day on served Him in Wyoming.

His preaching ministry began in 1964. In 1974, while helping with construction of the Evansville Christian Church building, he was buried in a utility ditch up to his chin. A dear friend dug him out with a backhoe. The family was told that he would probably not survive, but if he did he would be in the hospital for months of recovery. Much to the surprise of the doctors, he was home and began working again within 6 weeks. The doctors could only attribute another miracle.

Merlyn helped with construction of several other church buildings and he was instrumental in beginning several churches. He ministered to churches in Sheridan, Worland, Evansville, Vista West, and Thermopolis, Wyoming. Revivals, preaching, singing, and going to the Kiamichi's were important to him. He helped start the Wyoming Evangelistic Association and loved big game hunting with out of state preachers during the Preacher Hunt. He was known for being a hard-working minister who lived what he preached.

At the same time he supported his family by working eight hours a day, then he would come home and do the Lord's work by calling and leading home Bible studies. He would never take any money for ministering. To support himself he helped start Dunn's Auto & Truck Repair and worked at Auto Dynamics for years. He was good at fixing things and making tools if none were available.

He loved people unconditionally, was generous with his time, and helped anyone in need. He loved rock-hunting and making jewelry. He loved his dogs, eating hot dogs, and he could often be heard whistling or singing. His grandchildren all knew how much he loved them. The stories of their times with him are very entertaining!

Merlyn is survived by his wife of 67 years, Charlene; children, Deana (Robert) Angell, Carol Dunn, Allen (Sheila) Dunn, and Terry (Debbie) Dunn; eleven grandchildren; 30 great grand-children; 2 great-great grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.

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