Myron Jon 'Mike' Merdler

Merdler, Myron Jon "Mike" MONONA/EDGERTON-Myron Jon "Mike" Merdler, age 90, of Monona, died on Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, surrounded by those he loved. He was born on Sept. 9, 1919, in Milwaukee. Mike served in the U. S. Army during World War II, in Timberwolf, 104 Division. He was a member of a heavy weapons platoon, supporting Patton's tanks in France and Germany, attaining the rank of corporal. Mike married Geraldine Mae "Jeri" Chipchase on Aug. 31, 1940, after meeting her while delivering groceries. He said she was "the prettiest girl he had ever seen"and they were blessed with 69 years of marriage. Mike worked for Wurlitzer Company, Dekalb Body, and retired from Oscar Mayer and Company after 38 years. He holds several patents as a result of his extensive engineering experience. Prior to enlisting in the U. S. Army, Mike worked on the first unmanned radio controlled bombers. He also designed many homes in the Madison area for Gannon Builders. Mike was very appreciative of his opportunities to travel the world with the love of his life and their many friends. Many of his favorite times were spent with friends of their Gourmet Club. Mike is survived by his loving wife, Jeri; sons, Douglas (Maggie) of Verona and Scott (Laura) of Oregon; grandchildren, Jim (Chiaki), Amanda (John) Gasner, Michelle, Seth and Michael; great-granddaughter, Hana; and great-grandson on the way. The family was blessed to have their grandchildren know their grandfather/great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ethel Campbell; stepfather, "Scotty" Campbell; son, Michael; and granddaughter, Kerrie. A memorial visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2010. Memorials may be made in Mike's name to HospiceCare Inc., 3001 W. Memorial Drive, Janesville, WI 53548. Memorials: Memorials may be made in Mike's name to HospiceCare Inc., 3001 W. Memorial Drive, Janesville, WI 53548. Visitation: A memorial visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2010