Gloria Merickel

Gloria Blanche Hussey was born on September 14, 1921 in Superior, Wisconsin.  Her parents were the late John and Margaret (Baxtrum) Hussey.  Gloria graduated from the Ely High School with the class of 1939.  She continued her education at St. Cloud State University where she received a degree in elementary education.

Gloria taught first grade and kindergarten in both the Staples and Wadena Public Schools.  In early 1946 she met John W “Jack” Merickel on a blind date.  They married on November 9, 1946 in St Ann’s Catholic Church in Wadena and she retired from teaching while Jack continued the family business, Merickel Lumber Mills.  Their marriage was blessed with six children: Deetsy, John, Barbara, Jim, Abigail and Mark.  

Gloria enjoyed bridge club and was very active in many circles at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.  Gloria’s generosity was legendary.  She gave unendingly, financially and with her time and energy to organizations and individuals who were in need.  She was a passionate supporter of the arts as well as education and did all she could to encourage her children’s and grandchildren’s educations. 

On April 28, 2018 Gloria passed away peacefully at Fair Oaks Lodge in Wadena, Minnesota at 96 years of age.  She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Preceding Gloria in death were her mother and step-father and her husband, Jack Merickel.

Gloria is survived by her children: Deetsy (John) Armstrong of Seattle, Washington; John (Patti) Merickel of St. James City, Florida; Barbara Merickel of Algodones, New Mexico; Jim (Jane) Merickel of Wadena; Abigail Merickel of Hood River, Oregon and Mark (Nancy) Merickel of Eden Prairie; 9 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; many other relatives and a host of friends.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to St. Ann’s Catholic Church and Wadena County Humane Society.

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