Merlin Mantonya, age 56, of Clinton, Missouri, passed away peacefully, Monday, June 16, 2025 at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
Merlin Ray Mantonya was born on April 11, 1969, in Clinton, Missouri, the son of Everett E. Mantonya and Bonnie Lee (Campbell) Mantonya. Merlin attended school in Clinton, Missouri until the family moved to Gerster, Missouri where he attended Weaubleau High School.
Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Roy Mantonya, and one nephew, Caleb Mantonya, both of Fair Play, Missouri.
Survivors include two brothers, Alvin Mantonya (Nancy) of Royse City, Texas, and Leslie Mantonya (Linda) of Republic, Missouri and one sister, Jo Ann Mantonya of Clinton, Missouri, sister-in-law, Dorothy Mantonya of Bolivar, Missouri, as well as 5 nephews, and several great-nieces and nephews.
Merlin worked in several different fields including factory work, crane operator, and truck driver. He loved to have fun and would help anyone if he could. He tried to be a man of his word and expected others to be the same. He held his beliefs and opinions strongly and voiced them when he saw the need.
Merlin was one of a kind and will be deeply missed by family and friends.
Graveside services were held July 12 ,2015 at Vansant Road Cemetery, Clinton, MO with Rev. David Mills officiating.
Services were under the direction of Vansant-Mill Funeral Home of Clinton, MO.
