Merril Hergert died at age 88 on July 14, 2021 at the House of The Dove in Marshfield, WI. Merril was surrounded by family during his final days and requested only a small family gathering as a memorial.

Merril was born in Albert, KS in 1932 and lived on the family wheat farm until he graduated from high school in 1950. Upon graduation from high school, Merril enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War. After being honorably discharged at the conclusion of the war, Merril married Rachel Brack on June 6, 1954 in their hometown of Otis, KS.

Merril worked for a short time at Boeing Aircraft in Wichita, KS before moving with his bride to Jamestown, ND and starting a family. Taking advantage of his veterans benefits, Merril graduated from the University of North Dakota with a PhD in psychology and worked at the North Dakota State Hospital.

In 1969, Merril moved with his growing family to Marshfield where he worked at the Marshfield Clinic for 30 years until his retirement in 1999. In retirement, Merril enjoyed spending time with family, observing the natural environment surrounding his home, occasional trips to the casino, and entertaining those who knew him with his wonderful wit and quirky sense of humor.

Merril was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Rachel; an older brother, Cecil; and a younger brother, Laurel. Survivors include two sons, Wade, living in Woodbridge, VA; Brian, who lives in Hewitt, WI; a daughter, Lisa who lives in Marshfield, WI; and a sister, Nettie in Tracy, CA. Collectively there are 7 grandchildren who enjoyed spending time with their grandfather.