Merlyn L. Stock

Merlyn L. Stock, Commander U.S.N. (Ret.), “slipped the bonds of earth” on his final flight Nov. 12, 2005. He was born on June 10, 1932 in Barrett, Minn. His passing is deeply mourned by his wife of 51 years, his son and daughter-in-law, his son-in-law, his four precious grandchildren, his sister and his brother.
During his years on earth, this quiet man was known for h

is intellectual capabilities, his gallantry, determination, patience and high principles.
As a naval aviator, he was known as the “pilot”s pilot” by both superiors and peers. His naval career spanned 23 years and included service in Patrol Squadron 19, Helicopter Squadron 4, Training Squadron 3, NAS Sangley Point, Philippine Islands, Naval Training Command, and Helicopter Attack squadron 3 and other units. The latter squadron, HA(L) 3, is better known as the Seawolves, the most decorated squadron in Naval history.
His personal decorations include the Navy Air Medal with Numeral 22, Navy Unit Commendation, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Civil Action Unit Citation and National Defense Medal.
He was twice selected to attend the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calilf. There he earned both a B.S. in Naval Science and an M.S. in Computer Systems.
After retirement from the Navy in 1975, he headed computer operations for the City of San Marcos, in private industry, and at Texas Lutheran College. He also enjoyed his association with his students as an instructor at Austin Community College.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dr. Kathryn Banner; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Stock; grandparents; aunts; uncles and numerous Seawolves.
Commander Stock is survived by his wife, Barbara; his son and daughter-in-law, Drs. Stuart and M. Christine Stock of Wilmette, Ill.; his son-in-law, Dr. Bradley Banner of Merkel, Texas; grandchildren Michala Stock, Sebastian Stock, Meredith Stock and Barbara Jean Banner; his sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Richard Kloos of Minneapolis, Minn. and his brother and sister-in-law, Wayne and Suzanne Stock of Tampa, Fla.; two nieces and three nephews.
His was an exemplary life well lived.
Services will be at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on Friday, Nov. 18, 2005 at 11 am.
The family suggests any memorials be made to the Seawolves Scholarship Fund.