of rural Scribner
Died Thursday February 21, 2013 surrounded by his family,
at his home north of Scribner after fighting a tough battle of bile duct cancer.
Merlin was born May 21, 1950 in West Point, Nebraska. He attended District #50 from first to eighth and then graduated from Scribner High School in 1968. Merlin was active in the Army Reserves from 1968 to 1974. On June 5th, 1971, Merlin married the love of his life, Arleen Dirkschneider at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Snyder, NE. He worked several jobs including: IBP in West Point, Buckridge in Fremont, farmed and raised dairy cattle by Scribner and rural West Point, and he also worked at the Co-op from 2007 to 2011. Merlin has been a long time member at St. John's Lutheran Church, Cuming County Line and has also served on their church council. Merlin has been active in the American Legion and with the Cuming County Young Farmers. Merlin enjoyed coyote hunting, fishing, playing cards, and spending time with friends and family. One of Merlin's personal goals has been to make one person smile every day. Merlin will always be missed and never forgotten, because he will remain in our hearts forever.
Merlin is survived by his wife Arleen and their 5 children and families:
Jennifer and husband David Wesely of North Bend
Karen and husband Brian Brhel of Denton, NE.
Paul and wife Jaci Kottman of Waverly, NE
Amy and husband Joel Booe of Waverly, NE
Ashley and husband Lance Bachman of Lincoln, NE
6 beautiful grandchildren: Colton, Tyler, Maverick, Haley, Kaydence and Kenna
The family will receive friends at Ludvigsen's Scribner Funeral Chapel on Thursday Feb. 28 from 5pm to 7pm. A memorial service will be 11am Friday March 1 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Cuming County Line, north of Scribner. The family requests memorials to the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.
Condolences(9)
Vern & Rita Ortmeier
Omaha, NE Wednesday, February 27, 2013 Arleen:So sorry for your loss. Merlin always had a smile on his face. We are sure he has the biggest smile on his face as he meets our Lord. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Vern & Rita Ortmeier
Cherie Heise
West Point, NE Tuesday, February 26, 2013 So very sorry to hear of your loss. Growing up with the Kottman's was a great experience. I will never forget the good times we always had at the neighborhood parties. Merlin was one of the good guys and he will be missed by everyone who knew him.Jody Meier
Herman, NE Tuesday, February 26, 2013 Arleen and family,So sorry to here about Merlin, he was such a joy to be around - always laughing and smiling. I know he put up a good fight, but sometimes it's just a blessing to have them be at peace. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Trevor & Erica May
, NE Sunday, February 24, 2013 So sorry to hear of your loss. You will all be in our thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs to you all.Creeta Dahl
Scribner, NE Saturday, February 23, 2013 Merlin and I had a good talk after my breast cancer diagnosis. We felt blessed for each day that he was given. Think of you guess often. Wish we could be there but we are in AZ.Love ya,
Creeta and Danny
Natalie (Thietje) & Eric Myers and family
Lincoln, NE Saturday, February 23, 2013 We are so sorry for your loss. Merlin was a great man who always had a great smile and a contagious laugh. May good times and happy memories surround you today and in the days ahead. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.Dennis and Linda Miller
Norfolk, NE Friday, February 22, 2013 Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Always will remember Merlin's smile. Hugs to allTracy Carlson
Omaha, NE Thursday, February 21, 2013 Heaven received another special angel today. Thoughts and prayers are sent out to all of you. Our family has many fond memories of Merlin and Dad (Phil) is going to miss him! May your memories comfort you during this difficult time. It's hard to do but keep those smiles he liked to share going in his honor.Candy Repschlaeger-Hinkel
West Point, NE Thursday, February 21, 2013 So sorry to hear of Merlin passing. I have so many very fond memories. No matter how much time had passes he always knew who I was and I always enjoyed visiting with him.. Sending you all many thoughts and prayers during this very hard time.