Merlin H. Durfee

Aurora, Utah – Merlin Huffaker Durfee "Durf" passed away peacefully at home October 28, 2024, with his loving wife Julie at his side, at the age of 73.

Durf was born May 21, 1951, in Aurora to Emmett Vaughn and Lyla Sofia Huffaker Durfee. In Aurora he grew up milking cows and driving fast cars. 

Merlin met the love of his life, Juliet Melense Edmo, while he was working as a carpet layer in Salt Lake City. They were married on December 13, 1986, in Salt Lake City and then moved to Aurora where Merlin worked at the Sufco Coal Mine for 28 years.

Throughout his life, Durf enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding in the mountains. He owned and loved many horses in his lifetime and enjoyed his membership in the Salina Riding Club. Instead of children, Durf and Julie raised a plethora of animals, including many foals they raised by their stallion. He was on the board of directors for the development of the Blackhawk Arena. He retired in 2016 and enjoyed retired life, occasionally working at R Livestock.

To know Durf was to love him. He was often cracking jokes and telling stories, even though they might not be completely true. He will be greatly missed by all.

Durf is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; his brother, Shelby Legrande Durfee; and his nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Von E. Durfee and Mary Durfee.

Graveside services will be held at 12 Noon on Friday, November 1, 2024, in the Aurora City Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Homes of Richfield and Salina, Utah.