Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

About

University of St. Thomas

Merle DANIELSON Obituary

Of White Bear Lake On March 3, Merle lost his battle with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. Preceded in death by father Ted, mother Grace, and sister Marlys. Survived by Carol, wife of 54 years, brother Jim (Lois), sons Brian and Mike (Monica), and grandchildren Emmalyn, Isaac and Eva. Merle earned a BA in Music Ed from Bethel University and a MA in Music Ed from the University of St. Thomas. He influenced countless musicians during his 38 years as band director at St. Joseph's School, 27 years as a trombonist in the 451st Army Reserve Band, and 17 years as director of the Shoreview Northern Lights Variety Band. He was also a freelance trombone player with the KC Gospel Orchestra, Classic Brass Inc., and Encore Wind Ensemble. Merle was renowned for his love of cars, boating, water-skiing and fishing. Most importantly, Merle's strong faith in God was pivotal in carrying him through his last days.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Pioneer Press on Mar. 5, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Merle DANIELSON

Sponsored by St Paul Pioneer Press.

18 Entries

Janet Hall

Planted Trees

Jane Nordin

April 24, 2023

I met Merle in 1978 when I was hired at St. Joseph's School. We hit it off immediately and became dear friends as well as colleagues. When I became Principal at St. Joseph's, we had to figure out a new relationship. As you can imagine, there were more than a few times when the discussion about "who was in charge" needed to be reviewed! It was after one of those "discussions", that Merle started calling me "Boss". This endearment continued through the years. What an outstanding teacher, musician, friend, husband, father and man of God. Miss you already, dear friend.

Dan Johnson

April 19, 2023

Our prayers & thoughts are with you Carol & the family at this sad time in your life. We know where Merle is & Praise the Lord for his influence to students. I grew up in Roseville with Boy Scouts, church & school bands with him as he was the "music master" keeping me in tune! Hope to see you all at the memorial service Dan J. from Cambridge

Joy Peck

March 16, 2023

May the love of friends and family carry you through this difficult time. Sending my love.

Tim & Jenny Farley (Mike, Peter & Lauren)

March 15, 2023

Our prayers to the Danielson family. Mr. Danielson was a wonderful band director to our three kids at St. Joe's. He showed how successful you can become when you practice! Thank you to Mr. D for inspiring so many young people.

John Talbot

March 13, 2023

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Carol and Danielson family.
Merle and I have been friends since 1956 when my family joined Calvary Baptist Church in Roseville. He and I were both 9 years old, and have been friends ever since.
SO LONG old friend!!
John and Gay Talbot

Sue Bender

March 13, 2023

Merle helped to connect me with 2 Contra Bass Clarinets. The first was the 6' tall version I played in SNLVB for 6+ years, including the "Grinch" solo I played in 2014, when Merle and I went a little off-script together. The second is a "paperclip" model Contra Bass that I purchased from his Army buddy. I am quite thankful to Merle for making that connection, so I was able to supply my own Contra Bass to a concert band and a clarinet choir, when I moved back to the Shenandoah Valley of VA in 2021.

Dan LaBore

March 7, 2023

Merle was one of the first people I met when I started playing tennis and he took me under his wing from the start. I became a better player and person because of him while making a good friend. He had a firm but friendly manner that made you feel important. I have not seen him in a while but will miss him and all the good memories I have with him.

Erin Quinlan

March 6, 2023

As a young student at St. Joseph´s, Mr. Danielson taught me to play the saxophone and inspired me to not only love music but to love teaching. In high school, Mr. Danielson joyfully agreed to be my mentor when I wanted to explore becoming a music educator. Upon his retirement from St. Joseph´s, I had the great honor and tough task of continuing to carry on the legacy of the band program until a family job change took me out of state. I remember Mr. Danielson as a wonderful teacher, musician, mentor, colleague, man of faith and family. My prayers of peace and comfort during this difficult time for your family.

Brad & Peggy Schafer and family (Joe, Ellen & Carrie)

March 6, 2023

Our deepest sympathies from the entire Schafer family. Mr. 'D' was an amazing band teacher and director. We always enjoyed what he could get his students to play and our 3 children learned a great deal from him. The band concerts were always special.
Sending our prayers to your family.

Suzanne Pate Severson

March 6, 2023

I was privileged to have Merle as my band director at St Joe´s in West St Paul and then for 2 years at Brady High School. I learned my most valuable skills as a clarinet player under his guidance. He was a terrific musical role model. May he rest in peace.

Suzanne Pate Severson, Minnetonka

Patty Lackner

March 6, 2023

Mr. D. got me started in band and St. Joseph's School when I was in fourth grade. I loved being in band with him. He was a phenomenal band director.

Phil Chelstrom

March 6, 2023

My sincere condolences to Carol and family. Merle was key on getting me back to playing my instrument. I played with Merle on a number of occasions and most vividly with the Shoreview Band. Music plays an important role in our lives an Merle sure had a passion for this. He was true to his faith, and he´s in a much better place right now. We will meet again.

Philip Chadwick

March 5, 2023

To Carol and Family: I am very sorry to hear of Merle's passing. My prayers go out to you all, and may God give you strength during this very difficult time. I knew Merle thru my friendship with Mike Bertuleit.
Philip Chadwick Arendahl, MN.

Sharon Reding

March 5, 2023

Merle Danielson was my brother-in-law and we thoroughly enjoyed any activity or endeavor we shared with Merle and Carol. They are the only family members to join us at our cabin for a short stay. Merle and his Classic Brass Quintet provided music and entertainment at Dave´s retirement party. We always enjoyed the Northern Lights band concerts. They were extraordinaire. Dave and I will miss Merle in our lives and his subtle humor.
Dave and Sharon Reding

Ellen Nelson

March 5, 2023

I grieve with you, Carol and family yet rejoice as well that Christ is victor over death. I have cherished memories with you and Merle. Thank you for the sweet memories. You are in my thoughts and my prayers. Love Ellie Nelson

Rachel

March 5, 2023

Mr Danielson started a lifelong love of music for me. I still remember playing the flute in the band at St Joes. I loved reconnecting with him a few years ago at a community band festival. He was with his Shorview band and I was playing in my community band. I am forever grateful for the gift of music he gave me. My condolences and Pago out to his family.

Roger Grupp

March 5, 2023

It was always a pleasure to sit next to Merle in our brass quintet. His beautiful sound matched his gentle nature; his firm sound matched his continual quest to make us better musicians.
There a wonderful, new brass Classic Brass Inc. forming in Heaven.

Showing 1 - 18 of 18 results