Merle "Pete" Kiser

Merle Wenger “Pete” Kiser, 93, a resident of Rockingham, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.

A son of the late Carl L. and Della Wenger Kiser, Merle, was born on January 31, 1933 in Rockingham County.

From a young age, he was a hard-working, skilled carpenter. Over decades, he was instrumental in building and maintaining numerous residential homes including his own and his children’s.

His unwavering positive outlook and witty sense of humor served him well even into his final days.

Pete had a great appreciation for the simple things in life like his wife’s home cooking, a freshly mowed lawn, a motorcycle ride, classic country music and a deep love of family.

He was a keen observer of nature, especially birds and the weather. He enjoyed his annual deer hunting with his son and close childhood friends at his cousin Bill Wenger’s cabin.

His humble landscape oil painting hung through his house though he signed very few of them.

He was a life long member of Harrisonburg Mennonite Church where he enjoyed many friendships.

On October 1, 1956, he married the love of his life, the former Ruth Elaine Voth of Moundridge, Kansas. Their story began with a chance meeting at a restaurant while Pete was on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle trip out west. Together they enjoyed 55 years of marriage until her passing in October 2011.

Also preceding him in death were his sisters, Gladys (Floyd) Rhodes, and Ila (Teddy) Hartman; and a brother, Raymond (Doris) Kiser.

Survivors include his children, Cindy and husband Terry Garletts, Randy and wife Teresa Kiser; brothers, C. Leroy (Juanita) Kiser, Glen (Betty) Kiser; grandchildren, Stephen (Lauren) Garletts, Meghan Kiser; and one great-grandson, Kaiser Garletts.

A graveside service will be held at Weaver’s Mennonite Church Cemetery with Pastor Craig Maven officiating on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11 a.m.

There will be no formal visitation at the funeral home. The casket will remain closed.

The family wishes to thank the staff members at VMRC’s Brunk House who gave loving care to their dad in his final year.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Central Valley Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 245, Bridgewater, VA 22812. In Pete’s honor, the family suggests you visit an elderly person. You just might make his or her day and yours too.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements