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Merlin Halverson Obituary
Merlin B. Halverson, 82, passed away on May 6, 2024, in Lawrence, Kansas.
Merlin is survived by his loving wife, Judy, their two children, Lorann (Mike) and Eric (Jill). He enjoyed singing especially in his church choir and barbershop quartet, telling jokes, reminiscing with friends and neighbors, and working in his home workshop.
He was a proud recipient of an MBA from Iowa University and earned a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Kansas University. His engineering manager career included John Deere, Case IH, Kenworth, and Ottawa Truck. Through his career he received several patents and was recognized by his peers as being a creative and innovative leader. His work gave him many opportunities to travel, including extended time in China, where he developed a love of exploring different countries and cultures. He also had a passion for farming and was honored to be a member of the farming community in Iowa.
The visitation to celebrate Merlin's life will be Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 5:30-7:30pm at Warren-McElwain, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, Kansas. Funeral service will be Monday, May 13th, at 2:00pm at Good Shephard Lutheran Church, 2211 Inverness Drive, Lawrence, Kansas, with a short reception afterwards at the church. A burial service will be at a later date in Linn Grove, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Good Shephard Lutheran Church or Wounded Warriors.
Merlin's charisma, witty humor, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace. For Merlin's full obituary go to warrenmcelwain.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Merlin Halverson
5 Entries
Mike Neilsen
May 13, 2024
Judy and family,
We much enjoyed singing with Merlin in choir for many years. Merlin had a beautiful tenor voice that will be greatly missed. He's now joined the choir of angels.
Mike and Susanne Neilsen
Rod Dryden
May 11, 2024
I worked at Ottawa Truck for more then 20 yrs. I got to know Merlin during my years of building our trucks while he was in Engineering....I liked his personality and his mechanical knowledge of how parts work. He was very intelligent and easy to communicate with. During my last 5 yrs at Ottawa Truck/Kalmar, I worked in the parts office. I had the opportunity to work directly for Merlin in the 5th Wheel division after I had already spent a few years working for the previous manager as he later resigned. I looked forward to working for Merlin based on having a good relationship with him in my production years. While working for Merlin I was able to learn considerably more about the 5th wheel product. I could always approach him with product questions and I could feel empowered with better knowledge of the product and therefore answer customers questions more efficiently. I always enjoyed our conversations - work related or personal. He was a very easy going gentleman to work for. I felt like we communicated well. I once remember inviting Merlin out to lunch...I said I would buy him lunch....we went out for lunch but he insisted on paying for both since he made more money then me....Lol. He was a kind hearted man to work for. I also remember how proud he was of his education from KU. He also held a PE = Professional Engineer title. He also told me about his various patents - he was very proud of. He loved Judy and their kids. My condolences to his family.
Billy & Julie Brumley
May 9, 2024
Judy and family, We are so sorry for your loss.
Lee Halverson
May 9, 2024
Awww, Merlin, I shall miss you. Never met a joke you didn't like or enjoy telling. Never missed a chance to help your fellow man and never asked for recognition. You were one of the good guys.
Linda L. Schimmel
May 8, 2024
Judy, It has been such a pleasure to get to know Merlin and his inquisitive mind, while sharing lunch with friends. I am deeply saddened to know he will no longer join us for another meal. Blessings for you and the family as you navigate this loss.
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Memorial Events
for Merlin Halverson
May
11
Visitation
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
Funeral services provided by:
Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
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