Merlin Lee Lassen, 90

Merlin Lee Lassen was born on June 23, 1932, on the family farm near Dysart, the son of Severt and Margaret (Gill) Lassen. He graduated from Dysart High School and then served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. On April 12, 1955, Merlin was united in marriage to Gerene Chizek at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waterloo. He farmed until he was 40 and then worked in sales for Vigortone Ag Products, becoming regional manager. He loved cutting wood with his friends, playing cards, bowling, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs, helping local farmers and spending time with his grandchildren.

Merlin died at the age of 90 on September 21, 2022, at Sunrise Hill Care Center in Traer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Travis Loeffler; and 3 sisters, Lois, Lola and Arlene.

Merlin is survived by the love of his life, Gerene; 3 children: Randy Lassen, of Cedar Rapids, Kevin (Rhonda) Lassen, of Dysart, and Sharon (Roger) Loeffler, of Des Moines; 5 grandchildren: Tara Lassen, Sean (Shannon) Lassen, Dusty (Madison) Lassen, Evan Loeffler and Jordan Loeffler; 5 great-grandchildren with one more on the way; step-grandchildren: Joleen (Chris) Beeba, Rachel (Tim) Elliott, Brandon (Darrah) Pickard and Ryan (Megan) Pickard; and 8 step great-grandchildren.

Private family services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to Sunrise Hill Care Center in Traer. Overton Funeral Home in Traer is assisting the family.

Merlin’s family will be forever grateful for the love and care given to him by the amazing staff at Sunrise Hill Care Center.