Obituary of Donald George Merdink

Donald George Merdink, Jr., 81, passed away on April 12, 2024 after a year-long battle with cancer. His passing was quick and peaceful, surrounded by his family.

Son of Donald G. Merdink Sr. and Ann Merdink (Hamberg), born January 30, 1943 in Warren, MN. A U.S. Air Force Vet, and Great Northern/BNSF employee for 40 years; he “retired” in 2003. Don worked odd jobs throughout the years, his favorite being his most recent, mowing at Oak Marsh Golf Course.

He was preceded to heaven by his mom and dad; sisters Julie Patterson and Becky Rud; in-laws Ed and Betty Moszer; brothers-in-laws John Moszer, Dave Moszer and Charles Patterson; sister-in-law Joan Moszer; nephews Jason Trusty, Donald Trusty and Jacob Moszer. He is survived by his beloved wife Peggy; daughters Stacey Kaufhold, Tina Cardinal (Rick) and Deanna Merdink (Jesse); grandchildren Jesse Cardinal, Cole Cardinal (Great Grandson Rhys), Courtney Kaufhold and Eliana Kaufhold; sisters Hazel Merdink and Berta Bergeron (Keith) and many nieces and nephews.

While we lost our devoted husband and dad, many have lost a friend and loved one in him. He has been a rock to many and a handyman to all. Once you were marked as important to him, he’d be by your side if you needed him. There was so much more to him than just a husband, father, and grandpa, although these were his greatest roles – he was also a friend, a coworker, an uncle, a cousin, a brother, stand-in paternal figure, golf partner, the list goes on and on.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Oak Marsh Golf Course, 526 Inwood Avenue North, Oakdale, Minnesota on May 4, 2024 from noon - 4 p.m. We invite you to wear your favorite Hawaiian or golf shirt.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 14107 Hudson Road South, Afton MN 55001, or consider doing a small act of kindness for a stranger in honor of Don.