Merlin Askren

Bermudez Family Cremations & Funerals

Radwin McKinnon, Jr.

Tribute & Tallent Funeral and Cremations

Altogether<br/>4307 Vineland Road, Suite H-17-19, Orlando, FL 32811<br/>For more information, visit our website at <a href='www.altogetherfuneral.com'>www.altogetherfuneral.com</a><br/>Copyright © 2025 FPG Intermediate Holdco, LLC

Merlin Gayle was born in Nebraska and spent his childhood in Kansas; he graduated from Topeka High School in 1956. He received his B.A. in Journalism from the University of Kansas in 1960 and graduated Loyola Law School in 1971. Merlin Gayle Askren, CDR, JAGC, USNR (RET.), proudly served in the U.S. Navy, both in active duty and as a Reserve Officer. 

Merlin Gayle was a radio disc jockey in high school and college, then TV announcer and technical writer before beginning his law career which spanned 37 years. Following his years as a California Deputy Attorney General he established the first Office of Administrative Hearings in San Diego County where he served as the Court’s first Presiding Judge. During his life he was actively involved in the Optimist Club and Sacred Heart Parish in Coronado. In 2017 he was pleased to join the Rotary Club of Carmel by the Sea. 

Beginning in 1996, Merlin Gayle found his Higher Power and shared his experience, strength and hope with all those who sought a similar path. 

He is survived by his adoring wife of 37 years, Deanna Petersen-Askren, and by his beloved daughter, Marisa Gay Newman, from his first marriage. He is also survived by Marisa’s two children, Alex Loupe and Olivia Loupe; his sister, Mary Carney, half-brother Bobby Barker, cousins and nieces. He will be especially missed by his rescued feline friend, Maggie Magursky who spent many happy hours napping in his lap. 

In the early 1970’s, Merlin Gayle began attending the Monterey Jazz Festival and fell in love with Carmel by the Sea. In 2015 he was able to fulfill his dream of living on the Peninsula and moved to Pebble Beach. During his short time on the Peninsula he formed many wonderful friendships, especially at Carmel Presbyterian Church, the Mission in Carmel and the Pebble Beach community. 

Merlin Gayle had a lifelong love of Jaguars, jazz, pasta, history and literature. He embodied the essence of kindness, generosity, humor and strength of character. He will forever be remembered as a true gentleman by his many friends, old and new. 

Services are scheduled for Friday, September 1, 2017, at 1PM in the Chapel at San Carlos Cemetery, Monterey.

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Merlin Askren Obituary | Altogether