Merle Donald Wake, 76, of Muncie, died early Saturday morning, September 15th, 2012 at his home following an extended illness. He was born December 12th, 1935 in Muncie, IN. and was the son of the late John T. & Lavere (Bell) Wake. Merle proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Army. He was employed as a truck driver for many years, before retiring from the State of Indiana Department of Transportation as a supervisor in 1991. Merle loved spending time with his family especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Donna Jean (Winkler) Wake, whom he married August 2nd , 1964; six children, Rodney Rainey of Muncie, Devon Wake (Rita) of Muncie, Romona Fox (Perry) of Lexington, S.C., Cathena Upchurch (David) of Muncie, Lisa Wake of Muncie, and Kimberly Wake of Muncie; twelve grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; four sisters, Wanda Clark, Juanita Brenner, JoAnn Swift, and Alice Marienau , all of Muncie; two special nephews, Tony Swift of Muncie, and Jim Ditton of Georgia. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister Virginia Barber, and two brothers, John and Earl Wake. Funeral Services for Merle will be held Wednesday, September 19th , 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at The Garden View Funeral Home, with Pastor Everett Bilbrey of The Redkey Baptist Church officiating. Burial with Military Honor conducted by the Delaware County Honor Guard will follow in Gardens of Memory Cemetery. Family and Friends may call Tuesday, September 18th, 2012 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions can be made to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospice, with envelopes provided at the funeral home. Online Condolences can be made at www.gardenviewandgardensofmemory.com