Robert "Brian" MERHAR

Age 73, of Hudson, WI Died suddenly December 10, 2018 Preceded in death by son, Sean Merhar; former spouse, Joyce Merhar; and parents, Robert and Carolyn Merhar. He will be sadly missed by son, Brian Merhar (Tory); step-grandson, Matthew; brother, Randall Merhar (Debra); other family and friends. He was born in Saint Louis, Missouri to Robert and Carolyn Merhar. At the age of 10, he survived Polio. He attended Junior High in Mankato, MN. He moved to South Dakota at the age of 16. He earned a degree in Speech & Dramatic Arts from the University of South Dakota. He married the love of his life, Joyce after meeting her at a diner in Rapid City and eventually had two sons; Brian & Sean. Over his career, he was active in leadership roles; he served as the Director of Tourism for the State of Minnesota, Executive Vice President of the Minnesota Jaycees, and served many years and clients as their Disability Insurance Broker. His niche was selling insurance to doctors. Later in life, Brian was cast in both print and video modeling ads. Brian had many hobbies. He most enjoyed a Canadian fishing trip with his son. He loved Rock & Roll music and worked as a DJ, aka Brian O'Neal in the 60's in both, Ely, MN and Sioux Falls, SD. He spoke often of the Beatles press conference that he attended in 1965. He was a natural historian and was a collector of many things. His collections included marbles, movie & war memorabilia, art, and much more. He was known for his philanthropy. He had an adventurous spirit; rappelling down a building at the age of 69, attending the Sydney Olympics, and he drove a sports car with the top down. His wisdom, advice, and eccentric tastes will be greatly missed. A celebration of Brian's life will be Monday, December 17, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. with a gathering of family and friends beginning at 5:30 P.M. at BRADSHAW CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to SAVE – Suicide Awareness Voices of Education or Northern Star Council – BSA. 651-439-5511