April 4, 2018 at 5:30 p.m.
Clouses chosen as outstanding Hauser alumni
Merrill and Norma graduated from Hope High School Class of 1939. They owned and operated Clouse's Regal Store and Clouse's IGA/Frozen Food Center.
Merrill is a veteran of World War II, serving from 1942 to 1946. With Tom Hoover and Robert F. Herron, he envisioned and oversaw construction of the Veterans Memorial in the Moravian Cemetery.
Merrill was instrumental in forming the Hope Volunteer Fire Department and served as fire chief for 26 years. He received awards including the governor's meritorious service award.
Merill has been a member of the Hope American Legion, the Masonic Lodge, Lion's Club, Kiwanis and the Bartholomew County Historical Society. He was founding president of Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corp. in 1957.
Norma was a member of Hope American Legion Auxiliary, Hope Lion's Club, Kappa Kappa Sigma Sorority, Kill Kare Klub, Eastern Star and Bartholomew County Historical Society. She was a longtime member of Moravian Church and the Ladies Society and Kola Sunday School Class.
The Clouses helped organize the first Hope Heritage Days in 1967 and served as grand marshals in 1987. Merrill was the founding president of the celebration.
The Clouses were instrumental in establishing the Yellow Trail Museum in 1975, offering free building space and eventually selling the building for a nominal fee.
Merrill received the Sagamore of the Wabash award from Gov. Otis Bowen in 1980 and Merrill and Norma received the award from Gov. Robert Orr in 1987.
The Clouses are Bronze Members of the Heritage Fund and Hawcreek-Flat Rock Area Endowment Fund.
The Clouses were married for 74 years, with Norma passing away in April.[[In-content Ad]]
