Merl Bidlake, 83, passed away February 11, 2012 in the arms of his loving wife of 49 years Sara. Merl and his wife lived for many years in Phoenix Arizona. They moved back to Ohio during the two worst winters of Ohio in 1977 and 1978. This sent them packing back to Arizona where they stayed until Merl's retirement from Coulter Cadillac. After retirement they moved back to Ohio to be closer to their families. Merl was born in Spencer Ohio to Frank and Agnes Bidlake. In addition to his parents Merl was preceded in death by his brothers Earl, Ralph, Lyle and his nephew and buddy Gail. Merl is survived by his sister Mona Dembinski of Brunswick, son Rick of Wilmington, NC, daughter Barbara Schmauch of Wellington, 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. A special thanks to their nieces Diane Neiswinter and Linda Radosevic for their love and support. Cremation has taken place with a private family service at a later date.