Merlin Vander Maten

Merlin R. Vander Maten, age 86, of Park Rapids, MN, formerly of Corson, South Dakota, died Wednesday, December 30, 2015 surrounded by his loved ones. Merlin was born March 27, 1929 to John and Harriet Vander Maten. He grew up and was educated in Leota, Minnesota. In March 1951 he was united in marriage to Lorraine Vanden Bosch. Merlin worked in plumbing and heating and also in law enforcement, including the Deputy Sheriff for Minnehaha County, South Dakota and various other jobs. He also worked with his brother, John at the Vander House in Moorhead, Minnesota. Merlin was a volunteer fireman for Brandon, South Dakota for many years. One of his many passions was being in the Civil Air Patrol where he became the SD Wing Commander. Merlin is survived by his wife, Lorraine of Corson, SD; three sons: Wayne (Maggie) Vander Maten of Sioux Falls, SD, Calvin (Brenda) Vander Maten of Brandon, SD, Ronald Sr. (Donna) Vander Maten of Sioux Falls, SD; four daughters: Evelyn (Dennis) Dudley of Nevis, MN, Beverly (Fred) Cain of Sioux Falls, SD, Karen of Garretson, SD and Sandy of Sioux Falls, SD; close family friend, Colleen Collier; two brothers: Stan (Marlys) Vander Maten and John Vander Maten; and one sister, Linda Beyenhof, all of MN; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and two grandsons: Casey Vander Maten and Teddy Cain. Memorial service will be held 11 AM Saturday, January 9, 2016 at First English Lutheran Church in Dorset with Pastor Chris Davis officiating. Connie Shubert will be the organist. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service at the church. A Celebration of Life will also be held 2 PM to 5 PM, Sunday February, 7, 2016 at the Community Room 108 N. Heritage Road Brandon, South Dakota 57005.  To leave online condolences or to view the video tribute please visit www.jonespearson.com