Merle Jonathan Hood

Celebrating the Life of Merle Jonathan Hood

January 24, 1952 - January 31, 2026

Merle Jonathan Hood, a man whose life was defined by steady hands, a servant's heart, and a

legendary collection of "Dad jokes", passed away peacefully in Portland, Oregon, on January

31, 2026. He was 74 years old.

A Foundation of Faith and Family

Born in Salem, Oregon, to Donald and Faye Hood, Merle grew up with the values of hard work,

community, and a deep appreciation for the area where he was raised. After graduating from

Gervais Union High School and spending a formative year at Judson Bible College, Merle

married the love of his life, Susan, in 1974.

Together, Merle and Susan built a beautiful 51-year legacy. Their marriage was a testimony to

God's love, producing two children, Megan and Caleb, two grandchildren, and one

great-grandchild- all of whom were the absolute pride of Merle's life.

A Craftsman with a Servant's Heart

Merle was rarely found with idle hands. Whether he was cycling the local bike paths,

maintaining his signature 1965 Volvo (the "Red Sled"), or providing the family with unsolicited

(but always accurate) weather updates, he moved through life with purpose.

His true love-language was spoken in his workshop. A gifted woodworker, Merle's craftsmanship

lives on in the homes of nearly everyone he knew. To own a piece made or repaired by Merle

was to own a piece of his heart.

A Life of Quiet Generosity

In his retirement, Merle enjoyed serving others. He was the man who:

● Always had his pickup truck gassed up and ready to help anyone moving into a new

home.

● Was often seen mowing a neighbor's lawn just because it needed doing.

● Would drop everything at a moment's notice, the second a family member called for

help.

His faith was not just something he spoke about; it was something he did. He loved God by

loving his family, his church, and his community exceptionally well.

Merle's warmth, his steady presence, and his ability to fix just about anything (except perhaps a

bad pun) will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Merle is preceded in death by his brother, Milo Hood. He is survived by his two sisters, Marilyn

(Center) and Melinda (Lane), his wife Sue, his daughter, Megan, his son Caleb, his 2

granddaughters, and his great-grandson.

Merle's memorial service will be held on February 21, 2026, at 10:00 am at Dayspring

Fellowship in Keizer, OR. In place of flowers, donations can be made to Dayspring Fellowship

in Keizer, OR, to support building projects in the Dominican Republic.