Merlyn Schramm

Merlyn Elmer Schramm, 86, of Atlantic was called to his eternal home in heaven to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, May 25, 2019. He passed away at Cass County Memorial Hospital after a short illness.

Merlyn was born on December 18, 1932 in Storm Lake, Iowa to Albert and Florence (Gerdes) Schramm. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He grew up in Truesdale, Iowa, where he attended Truesdale Elementary School and Zion Lutheran School, and graduated from Truesdale Consolidated High School in 1950.

Merlyn proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Following his time in the Army, Merlyn returned to the lumber business, working in the industry for over 52 years. He carried kindness wherever he went, earning him many friends. In September 1961, that kindness was extended to a woman with a flat tire who later became his wife. He was united in marriage to Shirley Ann Schramm (Wolfmeyer) on August 12, 1962. Together they created a loving home and raised three children: a son, David, and two daughters, Kathy and Lori. Merlyn was a gentle witness for his Lord and Savior as evidenced by his service work within Zion Lutheran Church.

Merlyn was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Florence (Gerdes) Schramm; his step-father, J.J. Nanninga; his infant brother, Virgil; and his sister, Norene Grever.

He is survived by his wife Shirley; his three children: David (Tania) Schramm of Waukee, Kathy (Greg) Fields of Lexington, KY, and Lori McCarty of Salt Lake City, UT; grandchildren Nathan McCarty, Kasey Fields, Joseph Schramm, and Benjamin Schramm; extended family; and friends.

Merlyn thoroughly enjoyed travel and was especially proud of the fact that his travels had taken him to all 50 states. He also loved cars and was known for his exceptional knowledge of them. Through the years he memorized all kinds of car statistics and facts and relished being quizzed on his knowledge. After a quizzing, he frequently prodded “ask me more” with a knowing grin that he would not be stumped.
Merlyn was blessed with an engaging personality and a memory that never let go of a number or date. He will be remembered for his sharp wit and ability to weave humor into any story. Jokes told in German were some of his favorites. He loved to laugh and loved, even more, making others laugh. Fittingly, his graduation motto was “What is life without a laugh?” which foretold the cheerful way he led his life. Merlyn was a much loved husband and father, and he will be missed beyond measure.

Inurnment will be held with full military honors on Friday, May 31 at 9:30 am at Iowa Veterans Cemetery. Visitation will be available at Zion Lutheran Church in Atlantic at 5:30 pm on Friday, May 31. A Celebration of Life Memorial service at Zion Lutheran Church will be held on Saturday, June 1 at 11:00 am with a luncheon following. Pastor Daryl Tompkins will officiate.

It is respectfully requested that memorials be directed to Zion Lutheran Church in Atlantic.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Merlyn’s family and his arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com


IN REMEMBRANCE OF

Merlyn Schramm

BORN
December 18, 1932 - Storm Lake, Iowa

Died
May 25, 2019 - Atlantic, Iowa
At the age of 86 years, 5 months, 7 days

FUNERAL SERVICE
11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2019
Zion Lutheran Church - Atlantic, Iowa

OFFICIATING
Pastor Daryl Tompkins

MUSICIANS
Karen Bensen

MUSICAL SELECTIONS
“I Know That My Redeemer Lives” #461
“The King of Love My Shepherd Is” #709
“I’m But A Stranger Here” (“Heaven Is My Home”) #748
“Lift High the Cross” #837

INURNMENT
9:30 a.m., Friday, May 31, 2019
Iowa Veterans Cemetery - Adel, Iowa

The family appreciates your care and invites you to join them
for lunch following the service, in the church fellowship hall.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,
and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28

“Death takes the body, God takes the soul, our minds hold the memories,
our heart keeps the love,
our faith lets us know we will meet again.” - Unknown