Louis Merril Douglas. Sr., 83, from Caseyville, Ill., born in Cantwell, Mo., on Sept. 2, 1929, passed away to reunite with his Lord and Savior on Dec. 24, 2012.

Merril was a loving husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle and was loved dearly by his family and friends. He enjoyed spending his weekends at his cabin at Lake Timberline in Bonne Terre, Mo., with his family swimming, fishing and being outdoors while having a cold Busch beer, puffing on a cigar or having a chew, and listening to country music. He will be remembered for the love of his family and the many special times they had together.

He retired after 48 years in 1996 as a Millwright from Cerro Copper in Sauget, Ill. He was a member of the United Steelworkers Union Local 4294.

He was affectionately known as "Dirty Doug" to his co-workers. He had an impeccable work ethic which he passed down to his children.

Merril is survived by his loving wife, Gladys Mae, nee Stokes whom he married on July 15, 1949 in Piggot, Ark. They were happily married for 63 years. Also survived by three sons, Louis (Pat) Douglas Jr., of Springfield, Ill., Richard Douglas of Benton, Ill., and Michael Douglas Sr., of Caseyville, Ill.; a daughter, Mary (Phil) Jerrell of Ozark, Ark.; eight grandchildren, Ricky Douglas, Robyn Mays, Brandi Douglas, Christina Talkington, Justin Talkington, Victoria Talkington, Desiree Douglas and Michael Douglas Jr.; and 21 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary, nee (Clamp) and his father, James Alpha Omega Douglas. eight brothers and sisters, Raymond Douglas, Maxine Douglas, Laverne Highly, Helen McDaniel, Morris Douglas, Hourmey Douglas and Feebie Douglas.

Merril was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Caseyville, Ill.

Memorial donations may be made to family. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.herrfuneral.com.

Visitation: A Celebration of Life will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013 at Herr Funeral Home in Caseyville, Ill.

Funeral: Memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, at the funeral home.