Merlin 'Merlie' Steinagel

Merlin ‘Merlie’ E. Steinagel, age 78, of the town of Corning, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 7, 2019, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital, with his family by his side.  Merlin was born on June 29, 1941 to the late Fred and Leona (Schultz) Steinagel in Merrill.  He attended school in Merrill.  After meeting and falling in love with Judy Heise, the two exchanged marriage vows on September 15, 1962 in Wausau.  She survives.

Merlin was a dairy farmer his entire life until his retirement; it was his priority and passion.  He took over the family farm, which had been in the family for almost 90 years.  He loved farming and being outdoors, whether it was deer hunting with his hunting crew at the shack “way up north” or logging during the winter. He was known as the “Chief” in his hunting crew. Merlin and his family would make maple syrup, a family tradition that was started by Merlin’s father.  He also enjoyed traveling and would go on annual trips with family members.  Merlin looked forward to time spent with family.  He was a strong-willed man with a solid work ethic.  Merlin literally had a “sweet tooth” for sweets!  He loved his chocolate, ice cream and donuts.  Merlin was one of the founders of the Corning Fire Department and volunteered as a fire fighter for 15 years.  He also spent time as the town of Corning Supervisor.  Merlin was a member and elder at the Trinity Lutheran Church in the town of Berlin.  He will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered.

Merlin is survived by his wife: Judy Steinagel of Merrill, sons: Dean (fiancé, Donna Smith) Steinagel  and Brian (Jodi) Steinagel, both of Merrill, daughter: Linda (Steve) Schultz of Merrill and son: Kerry (Stefanie) Steinagel of Cottage Grove, WI, grandchildren: Kalin, Makyla, Kensey, Bridget, Jase, Carter and Nathanael, great grandchildren: Ryan, Skye, John and Ellie and sister: Irene Bartelt.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers: Gilbert and Harold.

The funeral service for Merlin will be held on Monday, August 12, 2019 at 11am at the Trinity Lutheran Church in the town of Berlin. Rev. Andrew DeGier will officiate. Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 11, 2019 from 4pm-7pm at the church, and again on Monday, August 12, 2019 from 9am until the time of the service, also at the church.  Burial will take place in the church cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in Merlin’s name be directed to the roof project at the church.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.