Merle Edward Reid

Merle Edward Reid, 61, of Burns, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born in Eugene, Oregon, on April 15, 1964, to Olin and Susanne Reid, Merle was the youngest of four children. He grew up in Eugene, graduated from high school there, and began his career with Safeway. Work later brought him to North Bend and Coos Bay before he settled in Burns, where he raised his family. He served many years as the manager of the Burns Safeway before opening his own convenience store, one of several successful businesses he operated alongside his wife, Wendy.

Merle married Wendy Haddock on September 7, 1991. Together they raised three children, Anna, Ty, and Cassidy. He was a devoted husband and father who supported his family in every endeavor, whether in sports, school, or work. He often said his greatest pride was his children. Family time was sacred to him, whether spent on the golf course, hunting on their property, or gathered around the dinner table. That joy deepened when he became “Papa” to his grandchildren, Brody and Brooks.

An avid hunter, Merle shared that passion especially with his oldest daughter and son, spending many days in the woods together. He cherished evenings around the campfire with friends, a Miller High Life in hand. Though he liked to tell Wendy he was simply “providing food for the family,” everyone knew the hunts often stretched to accommodate visiting friends. Merle never met a stranger. He loved to talk, made everyone feel welcome, and had a gift for bringing people together. He cared deeply for his community and worked tirelessly to make Harney County a better place.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Wendy Reid of Burns; his children, Anna Gahley of Burns, Ty Reid of Burns, and Cassidy Reid of Boise; his grandchildren, Brody Gahley and Brooks Reid; his brothers, Mark Reid and Michael Reid; his sister, Mary Sheppler; his son-in-law, Matson Gahley; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Olin and Susanne Reid.