Merle J. Bjerkness, age 90, passed away at Josephine Caring Community on Dec. 17, 2016. He took his last breath in the arms of his loving wife after she prayed "Thy will be done". Merle was born Sept. 17, 1926 in Bemidji, Minn. to John and Florence Bjerkness. He had 2 brothers and 3 sisters. He sailed with the Merchant Marines for 6 years before being drafted in the U.S. Army where he served in Korea and Japan for 2 years. Upon discharge, he went to work in the telephone industry until he retired. He met his wife, Betty Baumer, in Chicago and eventually they made their home in Stanwood where they raised 3 girls. Merle was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was respected by all who knew him. He stayed true to his Christian faith and often thanked God for his many wonderful blessings. He is survived by his wife of 64 years. Daughters Linda (Grant) Albert, Susan (Sid) Roberts, Karen Bjerkness. He had 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at Josephine Caring Community on Jan. 7 at 1:00 p.m. The family would like to thank all caregivers at Josephine for their loving and sincere care of Merle.
Arrangements under the care of Gilbertson Funeral Home, Stanwood