Merle Dean Gross, 76, of Huron, South Dakota, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Huron Regional Medical Center on June 8, 2026. A memorial service to celebrate Merle’s life will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at the Huron Area Senior Center. A private family burial will take place at Emmanuel Mennonite Cemetery near Doland, South Dakota.

Merle was born on December 17, 1949, in Huron, South Dakota, to Andrew E. and Kathryn J. (Hofer) Gross. He grew up on the family farm north of Lake Byron and graduated from James Valley Christian High School in 1968.

Following high school, Merle attended Grace Bible Institute in Omaha, Nebraska, from 1968 to 1971. He later continued his studies at Word of Life Bible Institute in upstate New York. It was there, while serving in the kitchen, that his lifelong passion for helping and serving others began to flourish.

After completing his studies, Merle returned home to farm alongside his father, Andrew, and brother, Sidney. During those years, he also became deeply involved with Byron Bible Camp, a place that would hold a special place in his heart throughout his life. Joel Harmon, a former employee of Byron Bible Camp, recalled, “Merle began showing up in the kitchen of Byron Bible Camp. This resulted in his many years of service to his Lord at Byron Bible Camp.”

Merle later attended culinary school, further developing his love of cooking and hospitality. Whether preparing meals at camp or serving family and friends in other ways, he found great joy in caring for others. He was known for his generous spirit, compassionate heart, and special affection for both people and animals.

For much of his working life, Merle was employed as a sheep order buyer, a profession that allowed him to build relationships with many people throughout the region.

A devoted follower of Christ, Merle was a member of Emmanuel Mennonite Church near Doland, South Dakota. He participated in a mission trip to Mali, West Africa, alongside missionaries Ed and Angie Tschetter from his home church. In his later years, he faithfully attended Emmanuel Mennonite Church and often brought others with him to worship.

Merle enjoyed many hobbies and interests throughout his life. He was an avid bowler and proudly attended the US Bowling Nationals for 30 consecutive years, traveling throughout all of the United States. One of his favorite ways to spend time with others was around a card table, and he was a regular participant at the Huron Senior Center. He especially enjoyed visiting with hunters who came to Byron Bible Camp and never missed an opportunity to strike up a conversation. He also enjoyed collecting coins and baseball cards.

Merle is survived by his sister, Donna Hofer; nephews, David Waldner (Barb), Andy Gross (Lee), and Jody Kuper (Dori); nieces, Gerri Leach (Gene), Cora Person (Doug), Barb Waldner, Linda Waldner, Georgia Langbehn (Steve), and Dawn Kleinsasser (Brent); along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Kathryn Gross; his brother and sister-in-law, Sidney and Joan Gross; his sister, Macy Waldner and her husband Jake Waldner; his brother-in-law, Joe Hofer; his nieces, LeAnn Kuper and Dottie Gross; and her son, Matthew Gross.

Merle will be remembered for his servant’s heart, unwavering faith, welcoming spirit, and the kindness he freely shared with everyone he met. His life was a testimony to loving God and serving others.

Memorial gifts will be applied toward funeral expenses. Any remaining funds will be designated to Byron Bible Camp, a ministry that was dear to Merle's heart. Condolences may be sent to Steven Langbehn, 20580 404 Ave., Huron, SD 57350.