William S. “Bill” Merritt, 65, of Chanute, passed away Nov. 26, 2025, at Kansas Heart Hospital in Wichita following complications from surgery.
Bill was born in Jacksonville, Florida, the eldest son of Robert L. Merritt and Jane Ann Wells Merritt. He spent his early school years in Virginia and Maryland before graduating from Chanute High School and the University of Kansas. For his performance in KU’s NROTC program, he received a regular commission into the U.S. Navy.
He trained as a Naval Flight Officer and served in several anti-submarine patrol squadrons flying in P-3 Orion aircraft. His naval career also included service on the staff of the Commander in Chief Atlantic Fleet and aboard the USS America. After 10 years of active duty, he transferred to the Naval Reserve, where he continued serving for many years, retiring with the rank of commander, USNR.
Bill loved flying and remained active as a private pilot. He was deeply involved in the Civil Air Patrol and held several demanding leadership roles. His curiosity and intellect were well known; he had a wide range of interests, especially in nature, aquatic life, amateur radio, music, art, and aviation. He could speak thoughtfully on nearly any topic, and his breadth of knowledge amazed those who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his mother and his brother, David R. Merritt.
Survivors include his father, Robert L. Merritt; his sister, Nancy J. Ahlquist; his nephew, Jarrett L. Kitch; and his niece, Dana A. (Kitch) Sepulveda.
Family will greet friends Jan. 15, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 209 S. Lincoln in Chanute. A Celebration of Life memorial service will follow at 10:30 a.m. A private family burial will be held later at Memorial Park Cemetery in Chanute.
Memorials are suggested to the Salvation Army or Grace Episcopal Church.
Services are under the care of Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave., Chanute, KS 66720.
