September 14, 2024 marks the passing of Kimblin Author Mertsch of Bryant, Arkansas.

He succumbed this earthy realm after a prolonged period of illness. He is remembered by his love of playing golf prior to his illness and operating equipment to construct custom swimming pools throughout the landscape of Arkansas. Much joy came for him through connecting with the earth he walked upon. He was known for the life lessons he taught his children through his actions.

Kim was preceded in his passing by his father Gene Andrew Shumaker Sr, mother Martha Shumaker, brother Gene Andrew Shumaker Jr.

He is survived by sister Nettie Lowry and brother Dale Wayne Mertsch, sons Christopher Mertsch, Jeremy Watson, Kenneth Andrew Mertsch, Taylor Mertsch, Kenneth Wedge Mertsch, daughters Carly Curry and Kathryn Mertsch, along with 11 grandchildren.

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light. – Dylan Thomas

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com