USAF CMSgt. (Ret.) Mervin M. Shank, age 89 of Fairborn, passed away Tuesday December 13, 2011 in the Hospice of Dayton.

He was born February 15, 1922 in Manheim, Pennsylvania and was a 1939 graduate of the Hershey School for Boys in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Mervin served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force during World War II and Korea, retiring in 1970 after 28 years of service at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.

During his military career he was a member of the 467th Bomb Group and was a recipient of the Purple Heart.

Following his military service he was employed with the Southland Corporation.

Mervin was a beloved member of Abiding Christ Lutheran Church in Fairborn; as well as the American Legion and a life member of the VFW.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Minerva, Alberta, Annetta; and a brother, Charles.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Mary; three sons, Edgar Shank and wife Jan of California, John Shank and wife Sarah of Xenia, John Wagoner and wife Elly of Texas; a daughter, Terry Rogers of Indiana; seven grandchildren, Emily, Richard, Bryan, David, Christine, Robby, Sonya; as well as seven great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Monday December 19, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. in the Abiding Christ Lutheran Church, 326 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, Pastors Craig Fourman and Sue Nelson officiating.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Abiding Christ Lutheran Church -or- Hospice of Dayton.

Arrangements in care of Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, Fairborn.