Merlin L. Luedke, 78, Howard, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 with his wife Sue by his side. He was born on March 27, 1942 to the late Roy and Marie (Andrews) Luedke. Merlin attended St. John the Baptist grade school and was a graduate of East High School. He married Sue Nelson on September 5, 1964 at St. John the Baptist Church. They shared 56 beautiful years of marriage together.

Merle was born and raised on the family farm.  With his father's help, he built their family home on a section of the farm land, where he and Sue raised their four children.  They made many memories in the house they shared until his final day.

He was employed as a truck driver for Leicht Transfer for 31 years, retiring in 1996.

He enjoyed being with his family and grandchildren.  He was a dedicated Grandpa spending many hours watching his grandchildren play their various sports.  Merle was always there to help anyone in need.   He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Duck Creek Council 6279 where he enjoyed bowling and playing slow pitch softball.  Merle also loved farming and using his cherished Allis Chalmers tractor to work in his weed free garden.

Merle will be sadly missed by his wife, Sue; his four children and their spouses, along with his beloved 10 grandchildren.  Tracey (Rick) Huben (Joshua, Jason, Jacob, and Jack), Scott (Kitty) Luedke (Faythe), Jodi (Dale) Przybylski (Samantha, Nathan, and Zachary), Jennifer (Jeff) Heckmann (Jessica and Alyssa).  His sisters Kay Vande Corput, Bonnie Siolka, Shirley (Alvin) Huben, Marlene (Dick) Delvaux; and sister-in-law Marlene Luedke.  In-laws Wayne Naparalla, Lee (Becky) Nelson, Wayne (Nancy) Nelson, Sharon Valentine, Mary (Dick) Reinhard, Patti (Tim) Perry, Dave (Barb) Nelson, Bob Dean, Greg Nelson, Tina (Kurt) Keckhaver; and many nieces and nephews.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Marie Luedke; his mother and father-in-law Michael and Genevieve Nelson; sisters Janice Luedke, Darlene Weyenberg; brother Gene Luedke; sisters-in-law Lynn Naparalla, Michele Dean, and Gayle Nelson.

In accordance with family wishes, there will be a private family ceremony. Online condolences welcome at www.PfotenhauerFuneralHome.com