Merna Violet Karels

Merna Violet Karels, age 90, of Blue Earth died Friday December 14, 2018, at St. Luke’s Lutheran Care Center.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, December 20, 2018, at 11:00 AM, at St Lukes Lutheran Care Center Chapel in Blue Earth, with Rev. Russ Jacobsen and Rev. Jan Redman officiating, visitation will be one hour prior to the service.  Inurnment will be in the Spring of 2019 at Hillside Cemetery, Winnebago. Web tributes may be left at www.pattonfh.com

Merna was born February 11, 1928 in Bancroft, Iowa, the daughter of Ole and Geraldine (Boeckholt) Gerdis. She attended country school and later attended school in Ledyard, IA. In the 5^th grade she moved Minnesota and attended school in Guckeen and Huntley. On December 11, 1945 she married Marvin Brockman, he passed away on December 21, 1955. In September of 1957 she married Benard Karels, he passed away on March 26, 1971. On August 17, 1972 she married John R. Karels.

Merna worked many years as a nurse’s aide and cook. She was a long-time member of the VFW Auxiliary #4580 in Blue Earth, holding several positions. She was also on the Senior Center board as treasurer for 13 years. In her free time she enjoyed playing cards, fishing, bingo, and watching the Minnesota Twins, but most of all spending time with her grandchildren.

Merna is survived by her husband; John Karels of Blue Earth, daughter; Sharon (Larry) Hagge of Lake Crystal, Marlene (Chuck) Heins of Redwood Falls, Julie Danks of Redwood Falls, grandchildren; Kevin (Denise)Hagge, Lori Hagge, Matthew (Robyn) James, Jason (Melissa) Danks, Dustin Danks, Brian (Jamie)Danks, great grandchildren; Devan and Jacob Hagge, Julia and Alex James, Ashlynn Danks, Josie and Millie Danks.

Merna was preceded in death by husbands; Marvin Brockman and Benard Karels, infant daughter; Bonita J Karels, sisters; Margaret Westendorf, Hermina Lowman, 3 step-sisters, and 3 step-brothers.