Merle Ault

Merle N. Ault, 86, of Cavalier, ND, passed away Friday, December 30, 2022, at Wedgewood Manor in Cavalier. 

On February 28, 1936, Merle Nicholas Ault was born to Nick and Violet (Sellheim) Ault in their home 4 miles south of Cavalier.

Merle attended and graduated from Cavalier High School. His first job was Cavalier’s lone newspaper deliverer because he knew where everyone lived. He attended Dakota Business College in Fargo. Merle was proud to work with his father at the Hartz Superette for many years.

Merle met his wife, Barb, while on a trip to California. They married on August 20, 1966 and enjoyed over 50 years together.

As a business owner, Merle was active cutting meat, ordering and stocking, as well as accounting. When he got to do a home delivery, he counted that as a bonus because he got to visit with a friend.

Merle started the Polaris Sales and Service for some winter fun. He and his friend Jack Williamson worked together, providing a place for young and old to come in and visit while working on their machines. A few of Merle’s sno-cats and cars continue to be in Polaris parades to this day.

Ault’s Fireworks was another fun business adventure. Merle sold fireworks in Cavalier for 64 years.

It is true, Merle was always working. He found great joy in being busy and lending a helping hand.

Merle served Cavalier as a City Councilman for 25 years. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge #22 for over 50 years.

Merle was a lifelong member of the Cavalier Presbyterian Church, where he was baptized and confirmed. He was a Trustee and a faithful servant of the Lord.

Merle’s grandchildren were the light of his life. He smiled over every picture, call, and visit. He was entertained by their stories and laughter. He loved them beyond measure.

Merle is survived by his daughter Noël, and son-in-law Daryl Watson of Cavalier. His grandchildren, their wives, and children are Nick and Becky Watson-Rylee and Reegan; Joseph Watson-Adrianna, Amaya, and Meelah, and one great great granddaughter Amira; Jordan and Natasha Watson-Ellie and Wilder. He is also survived by, brother Everett and Dolly Ault; brother-in-law Richard and Sharon Nolan; sister-in-law Mary Nolan Winkler, and many nieces and nephews.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Violet Ault; his wife Barbara Ault; great-grandson Conner Alexander Watson; brother Robert Ault; sisters, Maurine Striegel and Anna Mae Ault; brother-in-law Dennis Nolan.

Our family would like to thank all the staff of Wedgewood Manor, where Merle lived so comfortably. The love and kindness shown is appreciated more than you will ever know.

Memorial service will be held Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cavalier Presbyterian Church, Cavalier, ND. Visitation will be held for one hour before the time of the service at the church.