Merle Mensinger, Jr
1930-2020
Merle Mensinger, Jr, 90 passed away on December 29th in Modesto after a brief illness. He was a father and grandfather, a local businessman, an active community member, and a born leader. Merle, Jr was born on December 16, 1930 in Modesto to Merle and Estelle of Escalon. Merle grew up on his family's ranch north of Escalon. He graduated from Escalon High School where he met his wife, Betty Oliver. He continued his education at MJC and UC Davis. Merle served in the US Navy.
Merle had an outstanding work ethic. He was always eager to help, no task was too small or too challenging. He spent most of his career in the family businesses. He ranched with his father in Escalon for ten years. Then moved to Modesto to join the family at American Lumber where he eventually became President. Merle also ran the American Transit Mix in Empire and Tracy. He was a founder and director of Pacific Valley National Bank (now part of West America).
Merle believed in contributing to the community in which he lived and did business in. He was active in a variety of organizations in Modesto. He served as President for Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Memorial Hospital Foundation, Valley Builder's Exchange, and Downtown Improvement District. He spent countless hours improving a Boy Scout camp for local troops. Merle belonged to the Lumber Merchants Association where he served as President for both Northern CA and national organizations. Merle was a member of the Masonic Lodge #206, Scottish Rite and Aahmes Shrine.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Betty Oliver. He leaves his daughter, Merle “Ann” Novy (Richard) of WA, his son, Mark Mensinger (Susan) of Modesto, his grandchildren Bradford Novy (Kali) of WA, Melissa Mensinger (Greg Conner) of Santa Rosa, Matthew Mensinger (Sarah) of Oakdale, and Elizabeth Novy of WA, and his sister, Audrey Gillispie of Modesto.
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