Merlyn Jack Chaffin, 81

Merlyn Jack Chaffin, 81, of Smelterville, Idaho, passed away Sept. 12, 2021, at his home with family by his side. Merlyn was born Dec. 18, 1939, in Missoula, Mont., the son of Jack and Jaunita (Atwood) Chaffin.

Merlyn graduated from Anaconda High School, Class of 1958. Later in life, he obtained his license in HVAC after attending North Idaho College.

On Feb. 25, 1961, Merlyn married the love of his life, Sandra Tracey of Deer Lodge, Mont. They had a wonderful marriage of 60 years, and raised three children.

Merlyn was a Journeyman meat cutter for Safeway for more than 20 years, before moving to Idaho and going to work for Bunker Hill. After the closure of Bunker Hill, Merlyn became the Animal Control Officer for Shoshone County and most of the cities in the Silver Valley. Merlyn had a huge love for animals and brought home many strays. It is said he never met a dog he didn't like. In his free time, Merlyn enjoyed camping, woodworking, family history research and was quite the movie buff. He was also a proud member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Pinehurst Ward.

Merlyn is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Chaffin; three children, Tana Chaffin of Kellogg, Rance (Laureen) Chaffin of Texas and LeAnda Cannaday of Wisconsin; brother Mike (Jill) Chaffin of Wyoming; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Merlyn was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Danny and Betty.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

You may share your memories of Merlyn with his family at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com.