Merlin Wallace Bird, 83, of Rexburg died Friday, September 6, 2013 at his home from nature causes. He was born September 15, 1929 in Teton City, Idaho to Hilda Emily Peterson and Wallace Bird.

He grew up in Teton. The first school Merlin went to was the old Teton Rock School. School was held in the old seed house too. He went there until the new brick school was built. He went to South Fremont High School. He also graduated from Idaho State University in Architecture and building.

He worked for Zollinger Construction for many years, and then owned his own construction business. He was a very good carpenter. He also ran the Harley Davidson dealership in Rexburg.

He loved to draw and paint, motorcycle, hunting, fishing, camping and jeeping in the mountains. Taxidermy was a hobby as well as art work.

He married Lola Mae Ovard on October 1, 1960 in Idaho Falls, Idaho. They made their home in Rexburg. To this marriage came two children, Luwana and Todd. As time passed the family grew and so did his love for his 3 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. They will miss him greatly.

He is survived by his wife, Lola, and their children, Luwana Freeman (Judd Squires) of Teton City and Todd Bird of Rexburg, Idaho, as well as 3 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Verl Ray Bird.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on September 14, 2013 at Flamm Funeral Home in Rexburg. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home and again from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Wilford Cemetery.