Merlyn Cummings

Merlyn Cummings was born on December 27, 1927, and passed away May 21, 2024, surrounded by his family in his home. He was born on a farm to Floyd and Grace Turner Cummings. He had three brothers, Everett, Dale, and Russell who preceded him in death. Merlyn taught in a rural one room school after graduating from Oran High School. He earned a BA from the University of Northern Iowa and a MA from the University of Iowa. He also served in the US Army during the Korean War from February 1951 to February 1953. On December 23, 1950, he married the love of his life Helen Staack. Merlyn taught school for a total of 37 years in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and after moving to California in 1965, he continued his teaching career at Goleta Valley Jr High, retiring in 1988. He started his real estate career in 1978, serving most of the time with Town ‘n Country Realty, retiring in 2008. Merlyn served the community in several capacities with Goleta Pride, Goleta Valley Beautiful, Goleta Historic Society, directing a neighborhood fourth of July parade, mentoring Junio High Students, and at Calvary Baptist Church and St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in several positions. He organized and directed retired men and women maintaining the Church facilities with His Helping Hand for 25 years. He was honored as Goleta Man of the Year in 2008. Merlyn leaves his wife Helen, of 73 years, daughters Kathleen Jones, (who was married to Michael who has since passed), Karen Koeller (Karl) and five grandsons; Tim (Melanie), Jeff (Chandra), Andrew (Cindy), Joe (Alex) and Jacob, one granddaughter, Julia, five great Grandchildren; Sarah, Anastasia, Russell, Cooper and Elias. Merlyn’s Daughter Kristine welcomed her dad into heaven.

A gathering to celebrate Merlyn’s life was held Saturday, May 25th at 10 AM at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 4575 Auhay Dr, Santa Barbara, 93110. A reception will follow at the Church.