Merle L Royce 80

Merle L. Royce passed away peacefully on October 19, 2022.

Merle was raised in Marshalltown by his parents Merle and Eleanore. He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1960 and attended the University of Iowa, earning a Liberal Arts Undergraduate Degree, then receiving a Law Degree in 1966.

While in Law School he wrote for The Iowa Law Review.  His first job after law school was Clerk for a Federal Judge, Hon. Hubert Will, Northern District of IL.

Merle married Tommie Smith in Chicogo on September 21st, 1968.  They had 2 children, Sophia (Rob) Tracy, of Florida, and Les (Gina) Royce, of Indianapolis.

Merle then practiced law at Sidley & Austin, and then onto his private practice until health issues necessitated closing in December, 2021.   

Merle earned an Eagle Scout, and was Director of Scouting in the Wildcat District. He was responsible for stopping the demolition of the Chicago Theater, making it a historical  monument. 

Merle is survived by his wife Tommie, his children, four grandchildren:  Robert and Tommie Tracy, of Florida, and Mason and Parker Royce, of Indiana, and his brother Phillip, of Florida. Here is the link to the funeral home. https://legcy.co/3SOmFhk