William “Merle” McCaffrey, 94, of Polo, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2020, at New Prospect Nursing Home in Silvis, IL.
Merle was born Feb. 27, 1926 in Quincy, IL, the son of L. Edna (Groce) McCaffrey. Merle married Ms. Betty L. Kaltenbach on Dec. 22, 1951 in Quincy, IL. He was a veteran of the United States Army. In 1949, after the service, he graduated from Western Illinois University with his teaching degree. Merle went on to work for Liberty School District as a Teacher then as a Principal. In 1966 he moved to Polo and became the Superintendent of the Polo School District for over 22 years. He was a member of the Church of the Brethren and the Lions Club both in Polo.
He was preceded in death by his wife Betty; brother Joseph McCaffrey.
A drive through visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Polo Family Funeral Home, 110 E. Dixon St., Polo. He will be laid to rest next to his wife in a private graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the Polo School District or the Polo Public Library Foundation.
Condolences may also be sent to pffh.condolences@gmail.com.
