Merle Topper, 94, of Dixon, IL, passed away Sunday, February 10, 2019, at his home in Dixon surrounded by his family. Merle was born July 12, 1924, at home, in Dixon, the son of Emory Garfield and Edna (Lindeman) Topper. He married Betty Jean Tooey on November 9, 1946 in Dixon. She preceded him in death on March 12, 2008. He served in the United States Navy during World War II as a Pilot. Due to the passing of his father, Merle returned home from the military to take over the family farm; which he continued to farm until the age of 90. He was a long-time member of St James Evangelical Church, Dixon Elks Lodge 779 and a Trustee for South Dixon Township. He enjoyed socializing with his friends at many of the local businesses in town, some include Shamrock and Tipsy's. Merle was also known for helping his neighbors and will be greatly missed by many. He is survived by his five children, Sandra Ward of Apopka FL, James Topper of El Cajon, CA, Thomas (Deb) Topper of Dixon, Patricia (Michael) Callahan of Dixon, and Richard Topper of Dixon; seven grandchildren, Stephanie Swanson, Amy Giesinger, Frank Ward III, Mary Callahan, Kate Romero, Grant Topper and Gabrielle Topper; and eight great grandchildren. Merle was preceded in death by his parents; one son, John Topper; and two sisters, Ethel Vickrey and Ida Canfield. Visitation from 4:00-7:00 p.m., on Thursday, February 14, 2019, at the Dixon Elks Lodge. Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, February 15, 2019 at the Dixon Elks Lodge with Pastor Robert Dunbar, officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery with full military honors. The family would like to invite everyone back to the Dixon Elks for a time of remembrance and refreshments following the burial. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been directed to the Veterans Memorial Park in Dixon. To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Merle Gilbert Topper, please visit our .