Merle Gerig
Woodburn
Merle L. Gerig, 85, of Woodburn, passed away peacefully at his home Saturday, March 9, 2013 with his family by his side. Born in Woodburn on March 22, 1927, he was the son of the late Noah and Elsie (nee. Ehresman) Gerig. He was a lifelong farmer and worked construction. He was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church, Woodburn, holding many offices at church, as well as Woodburn Lutheran School. He was elected for 16 years on East Allen School Board. Merle faithfully served as a member of Woodburn Lions Club since 1949, and served on Allen County Extension Board for many years.
He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Eloise (nee. Klaehn) Gerig; children, Jackie (Ron) Bandelier of Tipp City, OH, Dean (Linda) Gerig of Woodburn, Jill (Neil) Richter of Wesley Chapel, FL, and Denise (Don) Ecker of Plymouth; siblings, Emerald (Gwen) Gerig formerly of Woodburn and Eloise Thorne of Arlington, TX; nine grandchildren; two step grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and three step great grandchildren.
Funeral service is 1 p.m. Thursday, March 14, 2013 at Christ Lutheran Church, 4412 Park St., Woodburn with calling one hour prior. Rev. Timothy Edwards officiating. Calling is also 1 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven. Burial in the church cemetery. Preferred memorials are to Christ Lutheran Church, Woodburn Lutheran School, or Heartland Hospice. For online condolences go to www.harperfuneralhome.com
