Walter Merle Yoder Jr., age 94, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Trustwell at Mansfield Place.
Born August 1, 1931, in Mansfield, Merle was the son of Walter and Vera (Galaway) Yoder Sr. He was a lifelong resident of Mansfield and a proud member of the community he called home for more than nine decades.
As a young man, Merle worked at Smittey’s Gas Station while attending Mansfield Senior High School, graduating with the Class of 1949. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country, proudly enlisting in the United States Navy. From 1950 to 1954, he served aboard the USS Essex (CV-9) aircraft carrier and bravely fought in the Korean War, completing two tours of duty. His service reflected his courage, dedication, and deep love of country.
Following his military service, Merle began a remarkable 50-year career with General Motors. Throughout those years, he was a steadfast advocate for his fellow workers, diligently serving in the United Auto Workers (UAW), where he held the respected position of Union Chairman. He believed strongly in fairness, solidarity, and standing up for others.
Merle had a lifelong attraction to the water and a deep respect for it. An accomplished and fearless diver, he was known for free diving as a hobby and was an avid scuba diver. He faithfully served on call with the Mansfield Scuba Diving Team Club, always ready to lend his skills when needed. The water was not only his passion but also a place of peace and purpose.
He was an avid sports fan, enthusiastically following all Cleveland sports teams and rarely missing a game. More than anything, however, he cherished attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, proudly serving as their number one fan. His presence in the stands and his encouragement always meant so much to them.
Merle will be remembered for his strong spirit, generous heart, and the positivity he carried into every room. He was admired by many—for his service, his work ethic, his loyalty, and his kindness. His life was one of dedication: to his country, his community, his coworkers, his family, and the simple joys that brought people together.
He leaves behind his children, Cathy (Pete) Angelas, Cindy (Jack) Soliday, Cheryl (Burt) Kareff, Brooke Yoder and Ben Yoder; his step-children, Wendy Thompson, Chris Au and Scott Au; his brother, Jim (Helen) Yoder; his grandchildren, Jevin Yoder, Jaden Yoder, Dinos (Samantha) Angelas, Katarina Angelas, Amalia Dasher, Jacob (Carrie) Soliday, Jeffrey (Sarah) Soliday, Matthew (Katie) Soliday, Cathy (Jason) Lemire, Kelly (Christopher) Rees, Chelsie (Brandon) Smith, Damian Yoder, and Mariah Yoder; and many great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Jenni Yoder.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Christian Scott Yoder; and his siblings, Margaret Oney, Evelyn Walker and Alan Yoder.
Family and friends may visit from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield, 98 S. Diamond Street. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 pm. Merle will be laid to rest in Mansfield Cemetery.
Words of condolence may be expressed at www.wappner.com
Funeral Home: Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield
Website: www.wappner.com