Merlin Thoen

Merlin Thoen, age 83, of Lanesboro, MN, died on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Season’s Hospice House in Rochester, MN.

Merlin Ardell Thoen was born on April 27, 1940 to Amos and Amy (Hilden) Thoen in Lanesboro, Minnesota.  Merlin graduated from Lanesboro High School in 1958.  Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force.  He took his military job seriously and was a proud patriot who loved his country.  After the Air Force, Merlin attended college at Winona State University where he received his Master’s Degree in education.  He later taught at Lewiston Altura Elementary.  Merlin married Sonja Flaby, and they had 2 children, Greg and Heather; they later divorced.  He then met Mary Paskiewicz and her son Michael.  The couple were married and enjoyed 45 years together. 

People who knew Merlin would say he was an environmentalist.  On any outdoor trip, he would always come back with more trash than he brought.  He loved the outdoors.  He loved being outside whether he was hunting, fishing, or just enjoying the fresh air.  Merlin was also quite keen on trap shooting and was very active in the Lanesboro Gun Club.  If he was not outside, you could find Merlin out on the dancefloor.  His affection for dancing was evident, and he was well-known for his slick dance moves. 

Merlin is survived by his children Greg (Mary) Thoen of Pepin, WI, Heather (Adam) Rutzick of Rosemount, MN, Mike (Mahr) Thoen of the Philippines; grandchildren Nicolas Thoen, James Thoen, Sophia Thoen, Grace Thoen, Bennett Rutzick, Sarah Rutzick, Jacob Rutzick, Brooke Thoen, Tyler Thoen, Ian (Mandi) Carleton, Jane Carleton; great-grandchildren Hazen Carleton, Emma Carleton; siblings Richard (Lisa) Thoen of Harmony, MN, Sandy (Dick) Morris of Holmen, WI;  and his aunt Shirley Brown of Rochester, MN.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Mary, and sister Helen Benson.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the Lanesboro Community Center in Lanesboro, MN.  Visitation hours will be from 12:30-1:00 p.m. prior to the start of the service at the Lanesboro Community Center.  Special music will be played from 3:00-5:00 p.m.

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