William Alt Merchen was born to William and Nettie Merchen on Dec. 14, 1937, in Chester, SD. Bill started driving truck for the family-owned gravel company at age 14. Bill and his parents moved to Rapid City where he was lucky enough to meet his wife of 60 years, Jane Morkert. Bill and Jane were married on Dec. 8, 1958, and were blessed with the birth of their first son, William Dean on Oct. 12, 1959. Robert Gene was born April 29, 1962, followed by Debra Carol on March 24, 1963. With a house full of kids, Bill and Jane moved to Iowa so Bill could work for the Hudson Oil Company.

Within a few years, they moved to Madison to allow Bill to work with his Dad again in the family business. They moved to Rapid City to raise their family. In early 1969, the family moved into the house on Fairmont Blvd., where they stayed for the next 49 years. Cindy Jane was a happy surprise, born July 25, 1969.

Bill started working for Barber Transportation and worked for them for over 20 years. During that time, the Merchen family could be found most every week-end at Sheridan Lake, camping, fishing and water-skiing.

Bill was awarded his Million Mile Driver award during his time with the Teamsters. Bill\'s second career was selling insurance with the Lewis Agency. Bill retired and was able to spend time on his hobbies: shooting his many guns and reloading all those shells they used.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Jane; son, Bill (Betty); son, Bob (Sandy); daughter, Debbie (Jeff); daughter, Cindy (Lynette); eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.