Carl J. Mergen

1955 - 2011

Carl J. Mergen, 56

Dodge Center, MN

Formerly of Albany

August 9,1955-Dec. 19, 2011

Carl Joseph Mergen, of Dodge Center, died Monday, Dec. 19, 2011, at the age of 56 as a result of a car accident.

Carl was born to John and Alma Mergen August 9,1955 and grew up on the family farm near Albany, MN. Carl attended Country School #2072 and graduated from Albany High School in 1973, where he was on the wrestling team. His baptism, first communion and confirmation were at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany. Carl enlisted in the US Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1976. Upon discharge, Carl attended St Cloud State University for two years.

Carl married Theresa Klein, they later divorced. Carl was a wonderful, devoted Father to four children: Cory (Melinda) of Dodge Center, Calvin of Byron, Kyle (Sarah) of Brownsdale, and Kayla of Onalaska. On Oct 1, 2010 Carl married Robin Cohrs and began his "Happily Ever After." With that union, Carl became the Step-Father to: Rebecca (Dallas) Linkemeyer, Travis Timmerman, Dylan Timmerman and Taylor Timmerman.

In 1995 Carl was hired by McNeilus as a welder on the drum line. Through hard work and dedication Carl worked his way into the sales department in 2001, where his love for the job and the company was evident.

Carl was an amazing man with a charismatic personality. He will be remembered for his unforgettable smile, contagious laughter and witty sense of humor. He was a truly kind, unselfish, hard working, caring father, son, brother, friend, and husband to Robin.

Carl loved sports. Throughout his youth, he loved playing baseball with his family; as a parent, he was Assistant Wrestling Coach at Triton for many years; he was an avid golfer when time allowed and he enjoyed bow hunting each Fall. Watching ESPN was a favorite past-time, which allowed him to follow every sporting event, including those of the MN Twins and MN Vikings which he loved.

Carl is survived by his loving wife Robin; his prized children; his precious grandchildren: Gavin Mergen, Taya Mergen, Griffin Mergen, Maddox Fritz, Mayes Fritz, Alizha Kappers, Kennedy Linkenmeyer & Mally Linkenmeyer; his Mother; Siblings: Jeff (Nellie), Jack (Sandy), Dan (Mary), Linda (Nick) Kneip, Irene (Mark) Klein, Peter (Sandy), Mary (Dana) Thomsen, Patty (Wayne) Johnson, and David (Paula). He was preceded in death by his Father and Grandparents.

Celebration of Life Services will be Friday, December 23, at 10:30 am, at Faith Lutheran Church in Dodge Center. Czaplewski Family Funeral Home In Dodge Center is in charge of arrangements. 507.477.2259.

Blessed be his memory. czaplewskifuneralhomes.com