Racine – Merlin James Bacon, 78, passed away at his residence on February 9, 2018, with his loving family at his side.  He was born in Gays Mills, WI, on July 15, 1939, son of the late Fred and Clarice (nee: Lester) Bacon.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Deloris Carol (Ginn), on December 19, 1965.

Merlin worked for J.I. Case as a gear cutter until his retirement.  He then worked for Nestle in Burlington until he retired again.  Merlin proudly and faithfully served his country in the United States Army.  He enjoyed being outdoors whether hunting, fishing, camping, taking road trips, or spending time at the family land in Richland Center.  Merlin loved his grandchildren tremendously and will be missed by his entire family.

Merlin leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of over 52 years, Deloris Bacon of Caledonia; son, James (Lee) Bacon of Sturtevant; daughter, Jennifer (Ricardo) Alvarez of Racine; grandchildren, Ashley, Taner, Abigail, Ryan, Ricardo, Anyssa; great-granddaughter, Ava; sister, Irene Rhodes of Onalaska, WI; nephews, Gordon (Roxene) Stussy, Roger (Brenda) Van Riper, Keith Rhodes; and other relatives too numerous to mention.

In addition to his parents, Merlin is preceded in death by his brothers, Archie (infant), Leslie; sisters, Marie (infant), Lavonne "Bonnie", Doris; special aunt, Winifred (Deed) Lester; close friends, Bob Nachtigal, and Dennis Flannigan

A visitation with the family will be held on Thursday, February 15, 2018, 4:00pm until 7:00pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road.

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