Merlin G. Sonnleitner, age 75 of North State Street Nunda, died peacefully, at home, Monday, December 28 ^th 2020 with his beloved wife by his side. Merle was born in Buffalo, February 16 ^th 1945, a son of the late Oliver J. and Violet M. Wilcox Sonnleitner.

A 1964 graduate of Fillmore Central School, Merle served with the Army National Guard and Reserves for 30 years before retiring as a Staff Sergeant Instructor. Merle resided in Nunda since 1975 and previously in Short Tract. He worked for North Star Automotive in Dansville. He began working for Lignaform Manufacturing in Castile and D.B. Webb in Leicester before pursuing his wood working passion becoming a self employed furniture maker. Merle was a true craftsman and you were fortunate to possess some of his work. He was a terrific husband, father, Papa and friend to many. Merle enjoyed mentoring and tutoring, especially sharing his craft with others. Merle had a longtime affiliation with the Dalton Assembly of God and was dedicated to the church's ministry.

Merle was preceded in death by his sister; Pamela James.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 51 years; Joanne Hanbach Sonnleitner whom he married on July 12 ^th 1969, a son; Troy (Sarah) Sonnleitner of Raynham, MA, two daughters; Kammy (Darren) Snyder and Sandra (Ron) Jacobs both of Nunda, a brother; Melvin Sonnleitner of Hunt, three sisters; Karen (George) Lucas of Nunda, Brenda Bivona of Florida, Deborah (Tom) Beardsley of Hunt, a brother in-law Michael James of Hunt, 4 grandchildren; Hannah and Rebecca Snyder, Haili Sonnleitner, Malachi Sonnleitner, and several nieces and nephews.

Due to Covid, a private memorial will be held at the Dalton Assembly of God with Pastor Patrick Thompson. Burial will be conducted in the Short Tract Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Cherith of WNY at 9534 Short Tract Rd. Hunt, NY 14846 or to Sully and The Ladies in Pink at 9605 Nunda – Dalton Rd. Dalton, NY 14836. Weeks Funeral Home 123 N. Main Street Warsaw, NY 14569 has arrangements. Please visit www.weeksfuneral.com to offer condolences or send cards. Flowers are gratefully declined.