Ronald Ray Merryman, 75, died Thursday, July 19 after extended illnesses at his Oakdale home.

He was born in San Jose, one of four children, to Raymond and Ruth (Ledford) Merryman. He graduated from Turlock High School and later joined the U.S. Navy. In the Navy he worked as a helicopter mechanic. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he studied welding at Modesto Junior College.

Mr. Merryman worked for 30 years as a machinist in the food canning industry.

In 1973 he married Betty Largent in Ceres. They were married 29 years before she died in 2002.

He was a hard worker and a family man. He also liked to read. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his daughter, Kim Nesslage of Oakdale; sister, Barbara Enright of Arcada; sister-in-law, Marie Merryman of Turlock; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; his parents; and brothers, Dale Merryman and Jerry Merryman.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25 at Allen Mortuary, Turlock.

A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 26, also at the mortuary.

Burial and military honors will be at Lakewood Memorial Park.