Merlin Hansmeier

Merlin J. Hansmeier, 91, of Waukon, IA, died Friday, September 13, 2019, at Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA. Funeral services will be held Monday, September 16th, at 11:00 AM at Salem United Church of Christ in rural Waukon with Pastor Keith Selberg officiating. Burial will be at the church cemetery. Friends may call from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Sunday at Martin Funeral Home in Waukon.

Merlin John Hansmeier was born December 29, 1927, in Ludlow Township, Allamakee County, IA, the son of John and Helen (Adam) Hansmeier. He was baptized and confirmed at Salem United Church of Christ in rural Waukon and attend Ludlow #4 school. On November 16, 1950, Merlin married Lorna Mae Leubka at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Postville. A farmer his whole life, he and Lorna farmed in several spots around Ludlow, primarily raising dairy cows and chickens. In 1994, they moved into Waukon.

He was a member of Salem United Church of Christ. Merlin loved spending time with family and friends, particularly while traveling or playing cards. He also enjoyed collecting toy tractors and model cars.

Merlin is survived by his two children: Beverly Schnuelle of Castalia, IA, and Wayne Hansmeier of Protivin, IA; nine grandchildren: Michelle (Mike) Engelhardt, Todd and Jonathan (Abby) Schnuelle, and Jeremy (Denise), Misty, Josh, Jessie, Chase, and Ty Hansmeier; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Lorna in 2005; and son-in-law Clinton Schnuelle.

Casketbearers are Todd and Jonathan Schnuelle, Jeremy and Josh Hansmeier, and Dalton and Justin Engelhardt.