Merlin A. Wilbur

Merlin A. Wilbur, age 73 of Hastings passed away March 19, 2014 after a valiant struggle with cancer. Merlin was born October 21, 1940 in Preston, MN to Manford and Alma (Hillestad) Wilbur. He was a graduate of Zumbrota High School and served in the U.S. Army. At home on Ravenna Trail for 30 years, Merlins career was always in construction from owning his own construction company to building inspector and private consultant in the building trades. He loved to garden, fish and travel with his wife, children and grandchildren traveling from Alaska to Puerto Rico to Norway. Merlin was active in his church and dedicated many years of service at St. Philips Lutheran Church. He was a beloved family man known for his wry sense of humor. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Ellert Bothun and sister Avis. Merlin is survived by his wife of 42 years, Elaine (Knutson) Wilbur; daughters Melanie Wilbur of Hastings, Terri (Jim) Baudoin of Kasson, Lisa (Don) Kettelcamp of Wentzville, MO, and Debbi (Bruce) Rinn of Rochester. Merlin also leaves behindhis step children Pam Rodriguez, John (Karen) Fladeland, Risha (Kevin) Murray and Harvey (Lori) Fladeland, brother Ardell (Bev) Bothun of Austin, MN and sister Dianne (Bill) Borm of Lodgepole, NE; as well as 20 grandchildren, five great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. The Memorial Service, officiated by Rev. David Wrightsman will be held 11 AM Saturday, March 29, 2014 at St. Philips Lutheran Church, 1401 West Fifteenth St, Hastings with visitation 1 hour prior to service at church. Interment, with Military Honors provided by the Hastings VFW Lyle Russell Post #1210 will follow in the Lakeside Cemetery, Hastings. Memorials are preferred to the American Cancer Society or St. Philips Lutheran Church.