Merlinda Hickel, 83, passed away Aug. 4, 2026 in Houston, Texas. She was born Nov. 9, 1942 in The Philippines.

She married her true love, Norman Hickel, in August 1968. Norman was born and raised in Great Bend and served in the U.S. Navy from 1964-1968.

They moved around for a few years before making Great Bend their permanent home in 1974. Once back in Great Bend he worked most of his life on oil drilling rigs as a roughneck, driller, and tester.

He enjoyed bowling, playing golf, and watching old movies. They shared 53 years of marriage together. Norman preceded Merlinda in death on Jan. 24, 2022.

A long time resident of Great Bend, Merlinda was the M in the store she owned and operated for 43 years, M&N T-Shirts & Screen Printing. She was the face of the store as this was her passion. She spent many hours from 1978-2021 making sure the store remained successful. Her motto was “You cannot make it if the door is locked.” She worked closely with many of the local businesses and sporting events over her 43 years in business.

After Norman passed, she moved to Houston to be close to family. Over the next 4.5 years, she learned to enjoy retirement. She lived independently where she made many friends, played games, cards, and continued her love of music by playing her guitar and harmonica for events in her community.

She is survived by her son, Don, and his wife Megan along with her four granddaughters. All of the girls, along with herself, will forever be known as the M girls.

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Aug. 15, 2026