Obituary: Merle M. Kalsnes

Merle M. Kalsnes, age 71, of Maple Grove, on 8/10/12.

Merle was a gifted storyteller who could turn a trip to the hardware store into an adventure and who loved a good joke. He never met a stranger. Merle was a talented woodworker and a gentle soul who is beloved by family and friends. MS took his body, but it could never touch his spirit.

Preceded in death by parents, Hjalmer & Clara; a sister; 3 brothers; a brother in law; and a sister in law.

Survived by loving wife of 47 years, Bernie; daughters, Lynette (David Pierini) & Michelle (Marvin) Bachmeier; grandchildren, the apples of his eye, Noah, Erin & Lauren; brothers, Alton (Evie) & Don (Marlene); sister, Dorothy Kliner; and sisters in law, Myrna Kalsnes & Joyce Olson; and many other family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012, at The Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 9100 93rd Ave. N., Brooklyn Park. Interment St. Vincent’s Cemetery. Visitation 4-8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 13, at Evans-Nordby Funeral Home, 6000 Brooklyn Blvd., Brooklyn Center, and 9:30–11 a.m. Tuesday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.

Information provided by Evans-Nordby Funeral Homes