Merle V. "Nick" Tracy Jr., 70, of Shiloh, died Thursday, December 21, 2023, at his home.  He was born April 17, 1953, in Asland to the late Marilyn (Schlaufman) and Merle V. Tracy Sr. Merle was employed at Kroger in Ashland after high school until taking a job with the Ashland City Water Treatment Plant where he worked for 20 years.  He was a member of the Adario  Church, NRA, local hunting and fishing clubs and American Rifleman Association.  Merle enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, woodworking and spending time with his family, especially if it was doing something he enjoyed.

Merle is survived by his wife, Diana (Varner) Tracy of Shiloh; daughter, Tiffani (Travis) Pirtle of Shiloh; grandson, John "JB" Pirtle of at home; siblings, Debra (Allen) Cutlip of Ashland and the Rev. Paul (Karen) Tracy of Ashland; brother-in-law, Michael (Kris) Varner of New Philadelphia along with several nieces and nephews.

Due to the weather, graveside services will be held in the Adario Church, 1790 Adario East Road, Shiloh, Ohio 44878 at 11:00 AM Friday, December 29, 2023. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Richland County, 3025 Park Ave., W. Mansfield, Ohio 44906. The staff of the Eastman Funeral Home, 49 W. Main Street, Greenwich assisted the family with arrangements.