Merlin Mantonya, age 56, of Clinton, Missouri, passed away peacefully, Monday, June 16th, 2025 at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the Vansant Road Cemetery in Clinton, Missouri. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Merlin Ray Mantonya was born on April 11, 1969, in Clinton, Missouri, the son of Everett E. Mantonya and Bonnie Lee (Campbell) Mantonya. Merlin attended school in Clinton, Missouri until the family moved to Gerster, Missouri where he attended Weaubleau High School.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Roy Mantonya, and one nephew, Caleb Mantonya, both of Fair Play, Missouri.

Survivors include two brothers, Alvin Mantonya (Nancy) of Royse City, Texas, and Leslie Mantonya (Linda) of Republic, Missouri and one sister, Jo Ann Mantonya of Clinton, Missouri, sister-in-law, Dorothy Mantonya of Bolivar, Missouri, as well as 5 nephews, and several great-nieces and nephews.

Merlin worked in several different fields including factory work, crane operator, and truck driver. He loved to have fun and would help anyone if he could. He tried to be a man of his word and expected others to be the same. He held his beliefs and opinions strongly and voiced them when he saw the need.

Merlin was one of a kind and will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, Clinton, Missouri.