Mervin D. Rice

Mervin D. Rice, 84, of  Old Zelienople Rd., Ellwood City (Franklin Twp.) died on  Monday, December 17, 2012 at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh following a six month illness.

Born June 17, 1928 in Ellwood City, he was the son of the late Coulson and Lilly Miller Rice.  He was married for 62 years to Betty Herr Rice as they were married June 3, 1950. She survives.

Mervin graduated from Lincoln High School in 1946.  He retired from the Ellwood City Forge following 46 years of service where he was a lathe operator.  He was an active member of the Bell Memorial Presbyterian Church, having served as an Elder and Trustee.  Mervin was an Veteran of the US Army, serving as a Sergeant during the Korean War.  He was an active 32nd Degree Mason with F&AM Lodge # 599 in Ellwood City.  He was also a member of the New Castle Consistory where he sang in the Consistory Choir.  His hobby was helping other people.  He volunteered for VITA and also the Carpenter Project.  Mervin was a faithful blood donor, having reached his 22 gallon donation pin.

In addition to his wife, Betty, survivors include a son, Dennis Rice of Ellwood City: daughter, Kathy Newton of Ellwood City; two sisters, Jean Correll of Ellwood City, Thelma Stenger of New Brighton; brother, Coulson Rice of Ellport; three grandchildren, Jeremy Newton, Carrie Young, Michael Newton; and six great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Melvin D. Rice.

Visiting hours will be held Thursday, December 20, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home 200 Fountain Ave. Ellwood City.  A Masonic Service will be held at 7 pm.

Funeral Services will be held at the Bell Memorial Presbyterian Church on Friday at 11:00 am with his pastor, Rev. Derek Longbrake officiating.  Military rites will be conducted by the Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Bell Memorial Church.

Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com.