Paul "David" Merling passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in Guthrie, Oklahoma, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 14, 1948, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Clark and Mary (Stover) Merling, David lived a life marked by quiet strength, devotion, and kindness.

In 1969, he married his best friend and lifelong companion, Stephanie Osborne, beginning a love story that lasted more than five decades. A proud Veteran of the United States Army, David served honorably as a Medic during the Vietnam War while stationed in Frankfort, Germany.

David's greatest joy was his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Stephanie; sons David Merling, Jr. and wife Heidi, and Jeremy Daniel Merling and wife Jennifer; grandchildren Jeremy, Kohl, Eva, and Liam; and great-grandchildren Jirah and Jailih. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clark and Mary Merling, and brothers Clark and Jack Merling.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 24th at 4:00 PM at the Hayes Funeral Home Chapel.

A full obituary will be posted soon.