Merton Louis Steckelberg

Merton was one of my favorite people! The words written here in his obituary perfectly describes his life and what a sweet man he was. Thank you Donna and Ingrid, for all the love and support you gave him throughout the years. How lucky and blessed he was to have you! It was a joy for me to see him each day for so many years at the Middleton Senior Center. I am so thankful I was able to be part of his life. ❤️ Jill Kranz

For many years, prior to my retirement, I was Merton’s physician. Indeed, it was easy to love this man because of his gentle nature. But, additionally, it was impossible to not appreciate his ability to overcome his disability. Yet that effort to make Merton “whole” was not done by my skills, but, rather, by the love, attention, and patience of Donna DePape and Ingrid Stephan. I was not aware of Elaine Schultz’s contributions but am not surprised, as she has helped many in our community. So what did Donna and Ingrid do? Well, first and foremost, they loved Merton unconditionally. They welcomed him into their family, even though he was not related. They were his angels. They never allowed Merton’s profound hearing loss and lack of speech to limit his communication nor his ability to be himself. Merton learned how to express himself, clearly and with emotion. He was able to enjoy his life, without regard to his disability. And he felt the love and happiness that every individual so badly needs and wants. In a world that too often neglects the afflicted, ignores the lonely, and thinks only of “me”, Donna and Ingrid followed the Gospel...clearly and completely...with love of neighbor. I am very grateful that I had an opportunity to witness this wonderful journey of life and love. Pax Tecum, Merton! -Gregory Sheehy