Racine – Merritt H. Bissell, 88, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 19, 2011. Merritt was born in Ironwood, MI on May 6, 1923 to Lindon R. and Dora M. (nee, Hill) Bissell. Merritt graduated from L.L. Wright High School following which he served in the U.S. Army; Company B, 424th Infantry Regiment in the European theatre during WWII. He attained the rank of Tech Sargent and served as platoon Sargent. His most notable campaign was the Battle of the Bulge. Merritt graduated from the University of Minnesota with his B.A. and from the University of Iowa with his M.A. He taught high school instrumental music in Iowa for eleven years and the Racine Unified School District for 25 years. Merritt married the former Christine Hinkle on August 5, 1955. She preceded him in death on May 23, 2000. He belonged at various times to the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Kiwanis Club in Iowa; the Music Educators National Conference, State of Wisconsin Music Educators, National Education Association, Wisconsin Education Association Council and the National Rifle Association. Merritt stood for honor, integrity and doing the right thing. He and his wife, Christine were dynamic teachers, touching thousands of young children's lives, through the gift of the love of music. Merritt is survived by his daughter, Linda Shilby; son-in-law, David Shilby; grandchildren, Melissa and Ryan; and great-grandchildren, Christopher and Ireland. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Kenneth L. Bissell. A memorial visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 from 5 until 7 p.m. Full Military honors will be provided at 6:30 p.m. followed by a time of sharing. Merritt will be sadly missed by his family. He was dearly loved, admired and respected for everything he was and stood for.