Merle Shinstine

Uncle Merle was my dad's youngest brother,and we did many things together with our families in younger days. Will always remember those good times. So wanted to see Merle before his death, but never made it up to Madison,and now unable to attend his funeral. God's Peace and Love to him, and you his family. Prayers to all, I'm sure Mom and Dad have already greeted him. Jim

Dear Lori, When we were kids, there was never grass grown between our house and yours. The path was well worn! I cherish fond memories of the Shinstine family...your dad taking us to his weekly bowling league at Poole's and buying us a pop, popcorn or a Blue Moon ice cream cone at The Chocolate House...your mom letting us have a Monopoly game going on for days and didn't care if it did take up the whole living room floor...the time the car door accidentally opened in Jerry's car and I fell out on Sherman Avenue--eek!...David coming to our house and being comfortable enough to walk in and sit for hours and chat, your mom would have to call to send him home...Mike taking us sledding, skating, etc or where ever we asked him to take us--remember in my eyes he was the cute older brother that I never had...and Lori, I have too many GREAT memories of you to list. I hope you too keep the wonderful memories of your dad alive. Your mom and dad dealt with trials and tribulations throughout their life, but their marriage and the church were very important to them. What superb role models! There will no doubt be tears with the passing of your dad, but talking often about him will dry up those tears and your heart will be flooded with warm and fond memories! My heartfelt sympathy goes to you and your family. May Christ be holding your hand at this sad time, Mary (and Neal)

Dorothy and David - we are sorry for your loss. Merle was a great man! I remember his hard work at whatever he set his mind to, his card playing, his dedication to keeping that snow plowed - even ours! And I remember fondly his schooling us on how to maximize the lawn parking for Rhythm N Booms. He was such a kind and giving neighbor, and seemed to give wherever he could. He will be missed dearly, and you all are in our prayers in a big way. Steve & Donna

Aunt Dorothy & family-So sorry to heat that Uncle Merle's heart took that final beat. Life does go on-we have to find a new "normal" without that big missing link. Wonderful children are God's blessings and help make the future bearable. Also, we have to be thankful for the years the Lord does give us with our soulmates. Tom and I would have celebrated our 43rd anniversary yesterday and Mom and Dad's would have been today (Dad gone 53 yearss and Mom 15 years) Time does march on-Trust in God and hope your peace passes all understanding. Won't be able to make it to Wisconsin at this time-having testing myself (biopsies came back okay)heart testing Monday. Having Shinstine blood means we have to keep an eye on our hearts and, of course, aging doesn't help. So glad Mary and my daughter Brenda got to see you folks last year. Told Brenda after meeting Uncle Merle she would know what her Grandpa Ralph would have looked and acted like. Brenda enjoyed herself and wishes she would have been given time to know both. Hope to make it that way this spring or summer.Love to all! Niece Sharon Babcock of Frederika, Iowa

Dear Dorothy and family, We were sorry to hear of Merle's death. We have fond memories of him from family reunions. We are giving a gift in memory of him to the Richland Food Pantry. Our prayers are with you. Shirley and Dick Steiner