William F. "Bill" Maerli

William F. “Bill” Maerli, a beloved member of the Cuba, Missouri community, passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on March 20, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri to Nicholas and Marie (Burger) Maerli, Bill lived a life filled with dedication and service to those around him.

Bill's commitment to education was evident as he graduated from Cuba High School with the Class of 1967 and furthered his studies at Missouri State University. His sense of duty led him to serve in the Missouri National Guard for six years.

A prominent figure in the agricultural world, Bill was well-known as a farmer, cattleman, master conservationist, and auctioneer for livestock sales and car auctions for thirty-five years. Together with his good friend Jim Reed, Bill owned and operated Midwest Cattle Service for a decade. His passion for nurturing young minds was demonstrated through his involvement with the Crawford County Fair and 4-H clubs, where he mentored numerous youths, particularly those in the Jakes Prairie 4-H Club.

In addition to his professional achievements, Bill served on the board of directors for the Crawford County Soil and Water District. He was a lifelong member of the American Hereford Association – Missouri Show Me Chapter and Livestock Super International. Bill's dedication to conservation was recognized when he received the Volunteer Conservationist of the Year award for outstanding leadership in Crawford County.

May his legacy of compassion and dedication resonate within all those whose lives he touched.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents Nicholas and Marie (Burger) Maerli; brother James Maerli; infant sister Mary Maerli. 

Those who are left to cherish his memory and to continue his legacy are his brother Paul and wife Pat Maerli of Cuba; sister Veronica and husband Butch Vollmer of Lake of the Ozarks; sister-in-law Pat Maerli of St. Louis; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many friends.

In accordance with his wishes, Bill will be cremated with a private inurnment held at Holy Cross Cemetery in Cuba, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to any local 4-H Club, in Bill's memory.

The Mizell Funeral Home of Cuba is honored to be serving the family of William F. “Bill” Maerli.