Merley F. Bevis

ORANGE - Merley F. Bevis, 86, of 519 East River Street, Orange, died Monday, January 3, 2011 in the Athol Memorial Hospital. He was born in Athol, on May 9, 1924, the son of the late Elmer and the late Kate M. (Linnihan) Bevis. He grew up in Athol and graduated from Athol High School with the class of 1943. While attending high school he played football, hockey and baseball. Mr. Bevis was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Army. He received the Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon and the Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged on December 19, 1945. He was employed at the Union Twist Drill Company for over 35 years. He was a call firefighter for the town of Athol for 29 years and retired as a Deputy Chief. He was a life member of the Athol American Legion Post No. 102. He was inducted into the Athol High School Hall of Fame in 2007 as a member of the 1942 Ice Hockey Team. He played semi pro football for the Athol American Legion Post 102 known as the "Old Dukes." He enjoyed playing softball in the industrial leagues for many years. He leaves his wife of 60 years, Mary E. (Battaini) Bevis; three sons, Bernard Bevis and his wife Rose of Athol, Brian Bevis of Orange, Bruce Bevis and his wife Anita of Phillipston; a brother, Richard Bevis of Orlando, FL; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services and burial will be private. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to Athol High School Athletic Association, 2363 Main St., Athol, MA 01331. For more information or to sign our online guest book please visit www.fiskefuneralhome.com. Fiske Funeral Home 1356 Main Street, Athol is directing arrangements. $(document).ready(function(){ });