Merlin Duane Darling

Merlin Duane Darling, affectionately known as Mert, an Idaho native and Texas transplant was born December 30, 1937. The first of eleven children, he was a natural leader people were eager to follow. He passed away after a short illness, while peacefully sleeping on November 12, 2024.

After high school graduation, he earned an appointment to the United States Military Academy, West Point. After graduating in 1960, he married the love of his life, Betty, on June 12, 1960, signing them both up to travel the world for Uncle Sam. He had an extremely impressive twenty-year military career: 101st Airborne Division, Army Ranger, part of the Berlin Brigade during the Cold War, a Green Beret, two tours in Vietnam, teaching ROTC at the University of Georgia, running a HALO school, Medic School and Recon School, Operations Research and Systems Analyst to develop the Blackhawk Helicopter and the Humvee. He retired from the military on June 30, 1980, as a bronze star decorated Lt. Colonel.

On either end of his Vietnam tours, Mert got his MBA from The University of Georgia in 1971 and then his BBA from Columbus College in 1975, completing his education with his CPA Certification in 1981. His second career as a CPA/CFA lasted the next 20 years. In the first 10, he went from an entry level staff accountant to owning the CPA firm in Austin, Texas. After semi-retirement in 2003, he enjoyed selflessly giving his time and talents. From mentoring elementary students, tutoring high school students, and supporting Georgetown High School with the Sun City Eagle Booster Club, Mert was generous with his support and knowledge. He was a former President of the Sun City Republican Club and an extremely involved member of the Kiwanis Club of Sun City Georgetown.

These accolades for Mert only scratch the surface of the amazing, multifaceted leader he was for his country, community, friends, and family. His life was full of love, honor, service and discipline. He embodied the values of Duty, Honor, Country. From singing on the Ed Sullivan Show and being a member of Mensa to receiving awards for the amount of blood he donated and the love he showed to everyone, Mert always made room for people, bringing them in and showing them they are valued and important. It was a common sight to see Mert with a child in his lap calling him “Papa” and soaking up his attention and affection. He was disciplined, brilliant, brave, humble, funny, and charismatic. He will be greatly missed by all who had the opportunity to cross paths with him.

Preceded in death by two younger siblings and his youngest son, Mark, Merlin Duane Darling is survived by his wife, son, grandson, four granddaughters, six great-grandchildren and eight of his younger siblings. It is an honor to carry his name and continue his legacy. He will also be deeply missed by extended family. There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, December 1 from 2 -5 p.m. at Reunion Ranch: 850 County Road 255, Georgetown, Texas, 78633. On Monday, December 2 at 11 a.m. there will be an interment at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery: 11463 State Highway 195, Killeen, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Sun City Kiwanis Club at 1530 Sun City Boulevard, Ste 120 - 240 Georgetown, Texas 78633.