Merle E. Willette III, 69, died July 9, 2022 at a Caribou hospital following a period of declining health. He was born in Eagle Lake, October 6, 1952 the son of Merle E. Willette II and Geneva (Chambers) Willette. Merle was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt, especially on Sheridan Mountain. He also enjoyed playing cards, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Merle worked for many area potato farmers throughout the years, and at the saw mills in Ashland. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Linda Willette of Mapleton, children, Merle Willette IV and wife Anna of Garden City, KS, Norman Willette of Presque Isle, and Jason Willette of Presque Isle, his brothers,  Norman Willette and Dana Willette Sr., 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, and his siblings, Noella Willette. Private family services will be held at a later date.