Merle James Rupp, 96, of New Bethlehem, passed away Thursday March 13, 2025 at home. He was born December 14, 1928 to the late George Barthalow and Elva Naomi Rupp.

He was a excavating contractor for many years.

He was a member of the Kittanning Church of Christ and a member of the Masonic Lodge. Merle liked working, playing music, and camping.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Rupp of New Bethlehem; daughter Susie (Butch) Orr of Wheatland, WY; daughter Judy Rupp of Kittanning; son Greg (Jean) of Gillette, WY; daughter Marla (Russ) Rupp-Herrick of Thornton, CO; son Larry (Marsha) Rupp of Kittanning; son Todd (Jamee) Rupp of New Bethlehem; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents George Barthalow and Elva Naomi Rupp; many brothers and sisters; step-son Charles Calhoun; unborn son Michael James Rupp.

Friends will be received on Saturday March 15, 2025 at the Snyder-Crissman Funeral Home in Kittanning from noon until the time of a funeral service at 3:00 P.M. with Evangelist Brandon Foresha and Evalgelist Larry Krause officiating. Interment is in the Belknap Cemetery.