Douglas J. Merdler,

CHIPPEWA FALLS/ VERONA- Douglas Jon Merdler, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011. He fought Multiple Myeloma over a six year period with uncommon courage, grace and faith. Doug was born on July 17, 1944 to Geri and Mike Merdler. He graduated from Monona Grove High School and continued his education at University of Wisconsin Madison in the ROTC program and received his degree in Social Work. Doug earned a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. He proudly served for four years in the U. S. Army. Doug worked for 32 years for the State of Wisconsin as a Unit Director, retiring in 2000 and utilized his management skills to run the household in Verona. His family was blessed that he was able to be home with his son Seth and be there when he came home from school, supporting him in school and sports. He was always very supportive of his wife Maggie, her work and the things she believed in. Doug was an avid hunter and enjoyed fishing trips to Canada with multiple groups of friends, it was always a great time. He planned many, many trips over the years to Canada fishing as well as deer hunting in Rusk County. Doug organized a camp to the level of a professional guide, all the way from making the supply lists, pulling together the group, the supplies and scheduling the camp location. He took unparalleled pride in introducing hunting and fishing to all those around him, new and old sportsmen, pulling them in on his obsession to be out in the wild. Doug enjoyed high school sports to the same level, watching not only his son but other kids as well. He was ready at any time to haul kids places, rake a field or work at the ice rink. Doug also attended Memorial Baptist Church in Verona. He is survived by his loving wife, Maggie; sons, James (Chiaki) of San Jose, Calif. and Seth; grandchildren, Hana and Taku; mother, Geraldine Merdler; and brother, Scott (Laura). Doug was preceded in death by his father, Myron “Mike” Merdler; brother, Michael; and daughter, Kerrie. A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, from noon until 4 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, with military honors being conducted at 3:30 p.m. The family would like to express a special thank you to Dr. Juckett and his wonderful staff for the exceptional care they provided Doug over the years. A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, from noon until 4 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, with military honors being conducted at 3:30 p.m.