Merle Cradick Obituary

Merle M. Cradick

July 28, 1933 - March 7, 2026

Merle M. Cradick, age 87, of York, NE died Saturday, March 7, 2026, at York. He was born on July 28, 1938, at home to Robert and June (Dobbins) Cradick near Coon Rapids, IA. He was married to Helen Milroy of Sutton, NE and to this union two sons, Joel and Doug and a daughter Debra were born. After Helen passed away, he was married to Terri Hale of Valentine, NE., and to this union a daughter was born.

Merle went to Badger country school south of Aurora, NE. One morning, while riding his horse to school he was hit from behind by a school bus. The horse was killed making Merle walk the rest of the way. He graduated from Aurora High School.

He learned to operate heavy equipment at age 15. Later, he painted water towers, fed cattle and hogs while working on a ranch. He eventually retired from Sundstrand Aviation in York. Merle loved feeding cattle and hogs and most always had a horse nearby. He enjoyed raising large gardens while giving most of it away to friends and neighbors alike. He loved to hunt, make new friends and never met a stranger.

Merle and Terri made many large Christmas decorations with his children and their families, and they all helped display them outside his home. Large family gatherings were very much cherished.

He is survived by his wife, Terri of York, NE; sons, Doug (Candee) Cradick of York, NE, Daryl Hale of Beaver Crossing, NE, and Melvin Hale of Beaver Crossing, NE; his daughter, Becky (Clay) Stodieck of York, NE; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, infant daughter, son, infant grandson and a brother.

Merle has been cremated and there will be no visitation. Private graveside services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family. Condolences may be left for his family at metzmortuary.com Metz Mortuary in York is handling arrangements.