Merle Elwood Wiley Jr. (Mick)

Merle Elwood Wiley Jr., known as Mick, passed away peacefully in his bed in Plentywood, MT on Friday, December 21 2024, at the age of 69 due to natural causes.

Memorials may be sent to assist in final costs if you choose to do so. Please write Mick's name written to "Merle Wiley" (and in memo line: memorial) can be dropped off or mailed to First Bank of Montana in Chinook, MT, or sent to the donor's choice. Mick requested no memorial service, asking instead that his friends have a cup of morning coffee in his honor and think of a memory that would make them smile.

Born the 2nd youngest of five siblings, Mick was raised in Whitetail, MT, and graduated from Flaxville High School in 1973, where he was known for his skill as a basketball guard for the Flaxville Cardinals. Following high school, he furthered his education in electronics and repair in Wahpeton, ND, and Helena, MT.

Mick married on August 28, 1975 to Donna Wiley and had two daughters to this union and later divorced. In the early 1980s, Mick was hired by Paulsen's Hardware store in Chinook, MT, as a repairman and continued serving the Hi-Line area for 24 years. He became known for his ability to repair a wide range of technology, from satellite systems to dishwashers and took care of the Eagles bowling alley in Chinook, MT for many years. Mick was known to go above and beyond for those in need, often covering repair costs for clients who couldn't afford them and accepting trades of goods like beef or baked goods in exchange. One of his daughters fondly remembers how her dad, Mick once accepted a pair of used red high heels as payment for a dishwasher repair from an elderly lady, who also let her play dress-up while he worked.

In addition to his work, Mick had a deep love for fishing, hunting, baseball and bowling. Often reminiscing about his baseball and bowling league days and the adventures he shared with friends. When he was much younger, he used to skip school and go fishing. He was a selfless individual who would give the shirt off his back for others, and an honest and loyal friend.

He is survived by two daughters: Misty (Steve) Sebert of Spokane Valley, WA, and Katie (Charles) Unruh of Crossville, TN; four grandchildren: Alexis, James, Kaidence, and Chevy; and three siblings: Patrick (Betty) Wiley of Whitetail, MT, John (Tena) Wiley of Williston, ND, and Richard Wiley of Ballantine, MT. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mick was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Merle Wiley Sr.; his stepmother, Loy Wiley; his sister, Muriel Levang; his stepson, Jason Smith; and his granddaughter, Jenna Unruh..