Merle R. Hiland

Merle R. Hiland, 84, of Saegertown, departed this life on Wednesday, October 31, 2018.

Merle was born in Meadville, on May 29, in the year of our Lord and Savior 1934, the third child and third son of the late Deacon John Henry and Arrethia (Vinson) Hiland.

Merle had married Catherine J. Hiland; she predeceased him.

Born and raised in Meadville, Merle attended Second District Elementary School and graduated from Meadville High School which is now known as Parkside Commons Apartments. In high school he was known as "The Sphinx", a nickname he gave himself. He excelled academically, socially and was a star athlete, especially in the sport of basketball. He captured the hearts of many hometown sports fans, winning many medals, trophies and awards. He was recruited to play college basketball but as circumstances changed, he instead entered the US Army in 1955 and served his country honorably until his discharge in 1961. Much of his service time was spent in New Mexico and Alaska where he was joined by his wife. Following his military career he and his wife settled in Maryland and began a family. For the next 25+ years he was employed as manager of Marlo Furniture Store, Silver Springs, MD, where he retired with his gold pocket watch and arm bracelet. After his return to Meadville, The Sphinx coached tennis, golf and bowling not only for financial security but also for the joy of winning more games and trophies.

Merle is survived by his two wonderful children, a son Merle "Chico" Jr., who is now the father of one and lives in Washington, DC, a daughter Rhoda H. Greulich who is now the mother of two and lives in Onley, MD, two sisters Janet Hiland, Thelma Hiland, both of Meadville, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by three brothers Donald, John and Alfred Hiland, three sisters Mildred Hunter, Joyce Hiland and Beverly Jordan.

Family and friends are invited to call on Wednesday from 11-12 at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where a Going Home Service will be held at 12:00 PM with Rev. Markus McDaniel, Pastor of United Faith Fellowship Church, officiating. Military Honors by VFW Post #2006 will follow.

Merle will be laid to rest in Greendale Cemetery.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com