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Merle Everett Thorud, June 6, 1931 - July 21, 2016

Born July 6, 1931 in Laverne, North Dakota, Merle followed the family to Oregon just before World War II. He moved around a lot, but never too far from the Thorud family.

Merle served in the Air Force.  He worked in the banking industry, holding many positions from cashier to examiner.

Merle owned antique stores in Sisters, Seaside, and then Timber Junction.  The antique store in Timber was known as the Half Tree Bar, where the hungry could find pickled eggs and hot dogs covered in mustard.  The bar, with a tree literally cut in half and finished to perfection, was the focal point for the thirsty traveler as they entered the rear part of the building.

Some of you may remember the perpetual “Estate Sale” on Walker Road across from Nike. Yes, that was Merle. He lived there for many years, along with his sister Inez and her husband Gil before they passed away.

With the help of his family Merle moved from the old Walker road family home to Cedar Mill several years ago. Merle spent hours at the library researching family history. He also enjoyed visiting and playing lottery games at Dotty’s.

During the last few months of Merle’s life, the family was able to celebrate his 85th birthday at Godfather’s pizza and then the 53rd family reunion in Cherry Grove. In Cherry Grove, he was able to enjoy his final “Ice Cream Social” as he served the many family members vanilla ice cream as he has done for many years.

He will be missed by his family and friends. Thank you for all the memories Uncle Merle. 

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