Merton G. Holland age 82, of Lena passed away on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at SSM Health Monroe Hospital. He was born on October 7, 1941, in Jo Daviess County, the son of Paul and Lola (Bunker) Holland. Shortly after graduating High School, he got a job with Gantts where he met Sharon Koch. Sharon and Merton were married on August 12, 1962, at Lena United Methodist Church. Merton was employed at Kelly Springfield for 37 years, where he held various positions throughout his time there.

In his younger years, Mert enjoyed bowling and going out dancing with his wife Sharon. He also enjoyed camping and traveling with his family and friends. Motorcycling was something him and Sharon did together and with friends also. In retirement years they enjoyed summers at Apple Canyon Lake camping, boating and fishing and winters in Florida with his brothers.  Most of all Mert loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his two children Robert Holland of Freeport, IL, and Barbara (Heath) Harbach of Warren, IL; seven grandchildren- Kaylene (Zach) Borgmann, Chase (Johanna) Holland, Blake Holland, Shane (Sarah) Harbach, Cody (Danesa) Harbach, Chelsea (Melissa Goodwin) Harbach, Analiesa Harbach; ten great-grandchildren with two more on the way; two siblings- Haldean (Lyn) Holland and Malinda Bolen; numerous nieces and nephews.

Merton was preceded in death by his parents; wife Sharon; three siblings- Roumaine Holland, Waynette (Jim) Costello, and Madalene in infancy.

A private family service will be held.

Burial will take place at Lena Burial Park.

A memorial has been established in his name.