Merton graduated in 1942 from Brandon High School.

He was a standout basketball player on the varsity team from eighth grade on, starting as a sophomore, junior, and senior.  Merton led the team in scoring and was named All-Conference in each of his final two seasons.  His coach, Nils Aspaas, called Merton the best athlete he ever coached.

Merton was active in other school activities as a member of the band and as an All-State Journalist.

After high school Merton went to Purdue University for one year where he played freshman basketball and ran on the distance squad for the varsity track team.  After the war, where he served as ensign in the Navy, he enrolled at Sioux Falls College where he was the leading scorer and was named All-Conference three seasons.