Merlin “Bruce” Cryer, 58, of Brenham, was called to heaven Friday at the VA Hospital in Temple.
Bruce was born Jan. 31, 1950 to Merlin Edward Cryer and Hazel (Morgan) Cryer in Humble.
Bruce was a decorated soldier and served as a Green Beret with the Special Forces in Vietnam. He was serving with the 5th SFG (Airborne) and was also a parachute rigger. Awards received include the Combat Infantryman’s Badge in the 5th SFGA; 1st SF,  the Bronze Star (First Oak Leaf Cluster), Parachute Badge; the Certificate of Appreciation and Letter of Commendation. He was also a Life Member of Special Forces Chapter 39 in Houston, and the VFW in Bellville. Bruce’s last duty assignment and major command was with the HHC 5th SFGA 1st SF, where he was honorably discharged in April 1972.
He loved spending time with his son Merlin Lee, going fishing and riding his Harley.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Meyer of Brenham; a son, Merlin L. Cryer of Spring; daughter Natalie and husband Philip Lopresti of Missouri City; step-children Ashley and Wendy Meyer; grandchildren Tony, Katherine, Dillon, and Heather Lopresti; step-grandchildren Jaiden and Kaylin Meyer, and his beloved dog, Kilo.
Funeral services for Merlin “Bruce” Cryer were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. A graveside service followed at the Houston National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Serving as pallbearers are Mike Augan, Troy Carroll, Merlin L. Cryer, and Gary Greer. Visitation with family present will take place Monday, June 16, 2008 from 6 until 8 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham. To view the obituary online or to post a tribute to the family, visit www.memorialoakschapel.com.