Merle Pfeifer

Merle J Pfeifer

July 15, 1935 - November 8, 2022

Merle Joseph Pfeifer passed away at his home in Ridgefield on November 8, 2022 at the age of 87. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by his loving family. Merle was born in Humphrey, NE, on July 15, 1935, to Jerome and Elvera Pfeifer.

Merle's family moved first to Seattle, WA, in 1939, then to Camas in 1940, and finally to Ridgefield in 1947. He attended the Ridgefield School District where he played football and basketball and graduated in the Class of 1953. This is where he met his sweetheart, Barbara, whom he married on August 28, 1954.

Merle served in the United States Air Force for four years beginning near the end of the Korean War. He earned the rank of Staff Sargent and the honor of Outstanding Airmen for his base. During his service he attended San Antonio College. Upon his Honorable Discharge, he returned to Ridgefield and continued his education at Clark College. He also started an apprenticeship as a Printer and worked at Portland Linotupe as a Typesetter for ten years. He moved to The Columbian newspaper where he worked as the Production Superintendent in the Composing Room until his retirement in 1992. Merle was very proud of the fact he spent over 30 years in retirement.

Merle was an accomplished woodworker and created many exquisite hand carved art pieces. He made Christmas ornaments, walking sticks, fish, birds, and a number of other items. He also created wooden toy trucks, trains, and dolls for his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Merle is survived by his wife, Barbara; their five children, Patricia Firth (Barry), Keith Pfeifer (Sharon), Brian Pfeifer, Craig Pfeifer (Julie), and Eric Pfeifer (Jenn). Merle has eight grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. He is also survived buy his sisters Mary Krawsky (Dave) and Betty Johnson (Jerry).

A memorial service will be held in his honor at 11:00 a.m. on November 30, 2022 at the Ridgefield United Methodist Church. A lunch reception will follow. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either the Ridgefield United Methodist Church or Hospice.