Merlin L. Rindahl
Merlin Lyle Rindahl, 91, passed away peacefully, Friday, April 8, 2022, at Marinuka Manor in Galesville, with his three loving children and their spouses by his side.
Merlin was born February 20, 1931, to Alfred and Alma Rindahl and was proud to say that he was born in the same house that he lived in for 91 years. After graduating from Galesville High School, he married the love of his life, Carole Elland, November 27, 1954. They enjoyed 63 wonderful years together, raising their children and farming on the family dairy farm.
Merlin began working on the farm by driving tractor at the age of nine years old. He was well-known for his mechanical expertise, repairing all types of farm equipment for himself and neighbors. He also enjoyed restoring vintage tractors and cars, especially his prized 1937 Chevrolet. He purchased one of the first power saws in the area in 1954, and spent countless hours in the woods, cutting timber and firewood. He remained actively engaged in managing the farm until his death.
Merlin was a member of Hardies Creek Lutheran Church, where he served on the Church Council, Men’s Club and sang in a Men’s Quartet. In February 2022, he retired from being the president of the Hardies Creek Cemetery Association, a position he held for the past 51 years.
After retirement, Merlin and Carole took joy in traveling and camping together. They also enjoyed dancing to old-time music and attending events with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Merlin organized the Hardies Creek Euchre Club, playing weekly Euchre games for over 20 years with his friends. He was also a whiz at playing Solitaire on his computer, enjoyed putting puzzles together, and watching his favorite episodes of Andy Griffith.
His ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren brought a lot of joy and he most often sang them a special song when they visited. He will always be remembered for his kindness, values and work ethic, which he instilled upon his family.
Merlin is survived by his three children: Vickie (Bob) Baer of Ettrick, Dr. Terry (Mary) Rindahl of Arcadia, Dawn (Chad) Schulz of Fall Creek; ten grandchildren: Stephanie (Daren) Pronschinske, Nathan (Beth) Baer, Nicholas (Kaila) Baer, Elizabeth (Brandon) Schmitz, Dr. Amy Rindahl (fiance, Gary White), Lorraine (Alex) Johnson, Timothy Rindahl (fiance, Rochelle Thesing), Caleb Schulz, Dylan Schulz and Catelyn Schulz; twelve great-grandchildren: Owen & Sadie Pronschinske, Brooks, Payton and Briggs Baer, Orson Baer, Mason, Connor & Madison Schmitz, and Sophia, Theodore, and Norah Johnson.
Merlin was preceded in death by his wife, Carole; his parents, Alfred and Alma Rindahl; and sisters, Alvina Olson and Alda Rindahl.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 14, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Hardies Creek Lutheran Church, N18481 County Road DD, Ettrick, with Rev. John Ashland officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will also be held Thursday, April 14, 2022, at the church, beginning at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Hardies Creek Cemetery Association, N18575 County Road DD, Ettrick, WI 54627, or a charity of your choice.
Torgerson’s Funeral Service of Black River Falls is assisting the family with arrangements.
