BELLA VISTA — Jack Raymond Merget

( aka Cactus Jack) of Vista, Calif., passed away at age 87 on Sunday September 12, 2021, in his home in Bella Vista, Ark. He was born in Los Angeles, Calif., on June 23, 1934, to Jack and Gertie Merget.

Jack finished High School in Vista, Calif., where his father had a nursery (Indian Rock Nursery) which he later took over and expanded into a national business. He studied business and horticulture in Los Angeles. He served in the armed forces from 19561958, stationed in Fort Lewis, Wash..

Jack moved his family to northwest Arkansas after selling his nursery business. First, he landed in Farmington, where he dabbled in ranching. Then to Benton County where he bought and developed many parcels of land, was a successful real estate agent and frequent bank visitor on Fridays for free cookies and coffee.

He will be remembered and missed for his jovial disposition and quick wit. He was never short of words and a quick comeback, although sometimes requiring a filter he didn’t possess. Jack loved to have fun and that meant good food and drink. He was also a world traveler and enjoyed having those traveling adventures and sharing with others. Jack is predeceased by his parents; and his sister, Jacqueline.

Jack is survived by his first former spouse, Sally Brown; his sons, Raymond Merget and Dale Merget, both of Arkansas; his daughters, Kristina Cook in Washington, and Colleen Osmolski in Georgia; his former spouse, Martha Clark; his three stepchildren, Brenda, Linda, Lisa, Keith (deceased); as well as his grandchildren and step-grandchildren.

Jack’s wishes were to be cremated and his ashes spread over the Pacific, off the coast of San Diego, returning to the area he grew up.

There will be a memorial service at 2pm on October 8th, 2021, at the Bella Vista Funeral Home Chapel, 2258 Forest Hills Boulevard, Bella Vista, Ark. 72715.

A special thank you to Superior Home Health and Cornerstone, and to Circle of Life Hospice for the loving care we received. Please make any remembrances to the Hospice at nwacircleoflife.com. Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralmation.com .