Merle Lange " 1931-2006
Merle LeRoy Lange, age 74 of Perham, MN, was called to his heavenly home on January 4, 2006. After a long hard battle with cancer and other illnesses, Merle died in his home under the care of Hospice and surrounded by his family.
Funeral services were held Saturday, January 7, 2006 at 1:30 pm at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham, MN. Merle was born in rural Windom, MN on June 16, 1931 to Earl and Dollie (Williams) Lange. He attended country school and Jeffers Public High School. He married Ruth Barker on February 17, 1952 at United Methodist Church in Jeffers, MN. This was the beginning of marriage and friendship that have inspired everyone who knew them throughout their lives.
Merles hobby was working. While he loved farming, at Langes Family Restaurant Merle showed his true love of people. The restaurant schedule allowed him to enjoy driving school bus, where he was known as Merle the Pearl. He was a father figure for many people, including foster children in both Lyon and Ottertail County. After moving to Ottertail, Merle bought into Dent Lakes Granite. His special gift of compassion helped many families through difficult times and he was able to share his strong faith in God. Throughout his lifetime he was involved in community activities including Ottertail Township Board, Ottertail Lakes Property Owners Association President, C.O.L.A. Board, Perham Hospital Board, Church Council, Lions Club Member, Rod & Gun Club. After retirement, he enjoyed traveling in their Excel camper to Arizona and camping with wife and grandchildren. Saying that Merle enjoyed music is an understatement. He encouraged every member of his family to use their talents. Merle was preceded in death by his parents.
He will be so missed by his wife of nearly 54 years, Ruth and children
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Ellen Lenz, her husband John from Cottonwood, and children, Johnny and great-grandchildren Josiah & Kailah, Matthew (Kristi) and Jennifer (Mark) Bluhm and great-granddaughter, Amabelle
Mike Lange, his wife, Liz from Dent and children, Christina (Josh) Myers, great-grandchildren Will & Kaylyn, Stephanie and great-grandchild Dee, Glen, Michael Graham and Francis (Andy) Williams and great-grandchildren Chase and Charlie Williams.
Mark Lange, wife Patty from Longville and children, Jessica (John) Border, Nathan, & Amanda (Jeremiah).
Lori Kuebelbeck, husband Chuck from Cold Spring and children, Corinne Egly, great-grandchildren, Brandon and Mason, Nicole Egly.
Lisa Huso, husband Lon from Cottonwood and children, Lee and Lane.
Mary Beth Muszynski, husband John from Perham and children, Jake and Ashley.
Funeral Arrangements were provided by the Karvonen & Son Funeral Home in New York Mills, Minnesota.
