Obituary of Merlin E Holmberg

Holmberg, Merlin E. age 89 of St. Paul passed away peacefully on March 29, 2017. Preceded in death by his parents Nels and Ruth Holmberg, son Rodney, sister Majel, and brother Robert Holmberg. Survived by his wife of 63 years Joan E. Holmberg (Brooks), daughters Ramona (Lyle) Engel, Stephanie Holmberg-Kennedy(daughter-in-law), Shari Collier, Gina (Eric) Carlson, Anita Brekken and brother Duane (Barb) Holmberg. Grandchildren Tara, Chris, Brandon, Troy, Brennen, Jason, Justin, Jessica, Harlan, Lyndsey, Jenna, Brenton, Casey, Drew, Trey, Derek, Austen and many great-grandchildren, relatives and friends. Merlin was born on November 20, 1927 near LaPorte, MN and moved to St. Paul after the death of his father. Merlin graduated from Mechanic Arts High School in St. Paul MN. After graduation, he worked on the railroad dining cars before serving in the Army stationed in Japan from 1946 to 1948 as a cook and baker. After honorably serving his country, Merlin worked for the US Postal Service on the East side of St. Paul before retiring in 1984. Merlin married Joan Brooks on May 16, 1953 at First Lutheran Church, St. Paul MN. Merlin and Joan raised their family enjoying outdoor activities, especially camping, fishing and snowmobiling. An active member of First Lutheran Church in St. Paul MN. Merlin could always be counted on to help with a project at church or Bay Lake Camp. Merlin loved fishing, hunting, and playing cards with his brothers and family. Sitting around the kitchen table with a good cup of coffee, conversation, and a few “treats” were some of his favorite pastimes, as he would eat almost anything put in front of him, with the exception of lutefisk. In Lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota Chapter, 7900 West 78th Street, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN, 55439. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 1st at 12:00 PM at Servant of Christ Lutheran Church 740 E. Hayden Lake Road, Champlin MN 55316. Visitation starting at 10:30am at the church with luncheon to follow and a private interment at the Union Cemetery, Maplewood MN at a later date.