Richard Merten

OBITUARY RICHARD C. MERTEN Richard Charles Merten was born on October 16, 1922 in Rockville, MN, the son of Joseph and Gertrude (Fuchs) Merten. After his mother?s death in 1933, he lived with his grandfather and went to work on a farm near Belgrade after the eighth grade. Richard met Lee Hens on the farm. They became friends, and later business partners. He served in the Merchant Marines during WWII. Richard married Marion Olson on October 4, 1952 in Alexandria, MN, where they lived in Alexandria and raised a family: Sandra, Michael, Gregory, and Richard Jr. Richard owned and operated the ?Corner Bar? in Alexandria, MN. He and his friend Lee Hens built and operated the ?Algon Ballroom? for 15 years. He also worked in construction: building homes and commercial buildings including, St. Mary?s Church, Midway Mall, and Pamida. When he retired Richard enjoyed flying his small plane, and working on his homes and yards. He liked hunting with the guys, and one year bagged a record deer that was entered in the Boone and Crockett Club. Dick and Marion enjoyed fishing and camping. He treasured his family life with his wife, children, grandchildren and great granddaughter. Richard was a dedicated Catholic. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and also St. Mary? Church. He even attended mass while living at Bethany Home. He will be missed by those who knew and loved him. Richard C. Merten died on Sunday, July 05, 2009, at Bethany Home in Alexandria at the age of 86 years. He is survived by his children Sandra (Tim) Smith of Federal Way, WA; Mike (Susan) Merten of Alexandria; Richard (Marie) Merten of Alexandria; grandchildren Kara Kelliher of Federal Way, WA; Lyndsay Merten of Millerville, MN; Christopher Merten of Alexandria; Emily Merten of Alexandria, Walker Merten of Alexandria; great granddaughter Lauren Hall of Federal Way, WA; sister Marge Anderson of Plymouth, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Marion Merten, son Gregory Merten, and brother Joe Merten. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at St. Mary?s Catholic Church with the Reverend Steve Binsfeld officiating. Interment was in the St. Mary?s Catholic Cemetery. Casket Bearers were David Olson, Steve Solum, Dan Hinrichs, Scott Berglin, Paul Olson, and Don Hinrichs. Honorary Casket Bearers were George Keehn, Stan Johnson, Larry Kvitek, Roman Koep, Ron Sletto, and Eldred Ness. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.