Merlin Rupp, loved and cared for by many, passed away on Nov. 19, 2022, at his home in Burns.

A one of a kind, old time buckaroo with many fans and friends who cared deeply for him. He considered ‘family’ to be those people who shared his truest passions of the western culture. He has three biological daughters that survive him: Dana Mort (Billy Mort), Robyn Quintana (Jeremy Widener), Ronda Van Norman (Ty Van Norman); as well as six grandchildren, Branden Adams (Charolette Crary), Taylor Humphrey (Robert Humphrey), Katie Eaton, Lance Eaton, Anna Van Norman, Maggie Van Norman; and two great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Amelia Humphrey.

His wife of 50 years, Faithe Rupp, preceded him in death in 2017. Perhaps she met him at heaven’s gate riding a fast, high stepping, fancy black bridle horse, accompanied by many thundering hooves representative of other loved ones who went on to heaven before him.  Included were his father and mother, Albert and Esther Rupp; brother, Joe Rupp; and sister, Marlene Barklow.  

Described above may just be a story, except for the people listed, however his real life also reads a lot like something from a fast moving, action packed story. 

He spent many days  in the saddle, making a career with horses and cattle. He would often be riding untamed horses, sometimes chasing mustangs, moving cattle, often enduring harsh weather conditions, long hours, and enduring many hardships in his days’ work.  

His repertoire is branded with remarkable characteristics as well as authentic buckaroo stories, winning over those enthralled with the western way of life. 

He embodied qualities of grit, stamina, resilience, flare, common sense and a devotion truer than most for the preservation of his beloved buckaroo culture. At times he was free, fun loving, heartfelt and kind. Always a fan of Levis,sourdough biscuits, a sappy Hallmark movie, making hair ropes, and having his family spend time with him doing what he loved. He was generally known as a man true to his word and full of good virtue. 

Heaven and earth are significantly richer with his qualities displayed. 

The memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 26, 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time at Historic Central Hotel, 171 N. Broadway Ave, in Burns. 

The family will provide a short presentation with opportunity for sharing in memory following. Refreshments and visiting open-house style until 4 p.m. 

Memorial donations can be made to the Harney County Ranch Rodeo 73417 Soldier Creek Rd., Burns, Or. 97720 or a charity of your choice. 

His daughters sincerely thank all those in the community who have helped Merlin in his times of need as he aged and needed more support from others.  

For those that knew Merlin, his handlebar mustache, bowed legs, famous one liners, we will  remember and salute, paying respect to a life lived fully, influenced by many good qualities. 

May his good memories bring us laughter and wisdom.