Mr. Merle Alan Hibbard, Major (USAF RET), joined his Lord on March 4, 2016 and was born 91 years ago in Bridgton, Maine.  Merle had a love for flying and served 22 years in the USAF, flying B-17's during WWII and Jet Fighters during and after the Korean War.  He spent 5 ½ years overseas with 2 ½ years in Japan.  After retiring from the Air Force he and his family returned to Bridgton and lived for many years until retiring to Lake City, FL where he continued with his love of flying.  He built and EXP (Lance Air) aircraft which he flew until he was 85 years of age.  Merle was also an avid golfer and belonged to the Lake City Country Club until his health would no longer allow him to continue golfing.  He enjoyed playing any of his several harmonicas and singing.  Merle was an active member of the Parkview Baptist Church of Lake City, FL and a 40+ year Mason with the Bridgton, Maine Lodge.

Merle was preceded in death by his wife Edith, of many years.  He is survived by his present wife, Freda Jean, a son, Michael and two daughters, Patricia and Catherine, a step daughter Cheryl and a step son Jerry, along with their spouses.  He also had 14 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

A memorial service with military honors will be conducted on Monday, March 14, 2016 at 11:00 am at Parkview Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Tatem officiating.  The family is asking that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the American Cancer Society.