Merrill D. Richey, 85, of Albany, passed away early Tuesday morning, September 25th, 2012 at Albany Health and Rehabilitation Center, with his family by his side, after a courageous fight with cancer. Merrill was born June 4th, 1927 in Fiat, IN., and was the son of the late Earl & Iva (Overla) Richey. He proudly and honorably served his country during WWII from 1945-1946 in the United States Army. He retired has a welder from McCormick Brothers in Albany after 27 years of service. He worked the past several years at C&J Hardware Store in Albany. Merrill coached little league for 25 years in the Albany community. He enjoyed playing cards each month, and belonged to the Saddle Club in Albany. He was a past member of Odd Fellows Lodge, and the American Legion Post #167. Merrill is survived by his three children; two sons Charles "Chuck" (Myong) and Kendrick "Rick" Richey of Albany; a daughter Belva (Bill) Curts of Dunkirk; three grandchildren, Travis (Lani) Richey of Albany, Brock (Jody) Curts of Dunkirk, and Brittany (Nathanael) Clark of Muncie; nine great-grandchildren, Jadon, Eden, Gavrie, Azriel & Arian Richey of Albany, Jordan, Isaac, Whitney & Kia Vaughn of Dunkirk; a sister Carol (Gwinn) Duggar of Alexandria; several nieces and nephews also survive. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his loving wife of fifty-three years Charlotte (Shorty) Richey in 2002; two brothers Darrell and Paul Richey. Funeral Services for Merrill will be held, Friday, September 28th at 10:00 a.m. at Garden View Funeral Home, with Pastor Gordon Jackson officiating. Burial will follow with Military Honors will be conducted by the Delaware County Honor Guard in the Gardens of Memory Cemetery. Family and Friends can call Thursday, September 27th, 2012 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions can be made to State of the Heart Hospice, 1237 West StRd 67, Portland, IN 47371, with envelopes provided at the funeral home. The family wishes to express a heartfelt thanks to the staff of Albany Health & Rehabilitation Center for their care of Merrill. Online Condolences can be made at www.gardenviewandgardensofmemory.com