Merlin L. Kerstetter, 84 of Canal Fulton, passed away Monday, February 13, 2017 at Affinity Medical Center. Born in Massillon to the late Willard and Helen (Nussbaum) Kerstetter, he had been a Canal Fulton/Massillon area resident for most of his life and served as President of Massillon City Council. He was a proud U.S. Navy veteran serving from 1950-1955. Merlin was a man who wore many hats. He worked for Ohio Bell, starting out as a linesman and moving up to supervisor for sales reps, was the founder and owner of Fulton Family Hardware, sold real estate, drove bus and was a custodian for Northwest Local Schools. Merlin was later called to the ministry. He retired as a minister from Brewster Faith United Church of Christ in 2008. Merlin had a love for watching his grandkids, fishing with his boys on Lake Erie, camping, church activities and collecting Santa's. He was an avid fan of all Ohio sports teams; Ohio State, Cleveland Browns, Cavs, Indians and the Northwest Indians. Merlin is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Joan (Yetzer); children, Keith (Theresa) Kerstetter, Kandi (Chuck) DeVoe, Kim (Bill) Franks, Kelly Wetzel and Kyle (Jennifer) Kerstetter; 12 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; sister Trudy (Clint) Ruesser, Elaine (Jerry) Garver; numerous nieces and nephews and his special friend, his basset Lucy. A Memorial Service will be held SATURDAY, 11am, at Trinity United Church of Christ, 8101 Manchester Ave. NW, Canal Fulton, Rev. Glen Shedlock, officiating. Family and Friends may call Friday, 5pm to 8pm AT THE CHURCH. Inurnment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials in Merlin's name can be made to Trinity United Church of Christ or Brewster Faith United Church of Christ, 215 Superior St. NE, Brewster, OH 44613.

His guestbook and Video-Gift tribute may be viewed online at www.SwigartEasterlingFuneralHome.com .