Putnam, Merrill J. age 87, of Anoka, passed away Sept. 4, 2013. He was a loving husband, father, grand- father & great- grandfather. He was a carpenter for over 40 years and enjoyed woodworking. Preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters and 4 brothers. Survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Viola; children, Merrill Jr. (Jean), David (Sandy), Michael, Paul, Darlene (Kirby) Beck, Annette (Larry) McCalla, Jeanne Putnam (Bruce); 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; brother, Ronnie. Funeral service Tuesday, 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior at Elim Baptist Church, 503 Polk St., Anoka. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery, Anoka. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to American Cancer Society and Elim Baptist Church. Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home Anoka 763-421-0220 thurston-lindberg.com