Babbit – Merlin Solberg passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at Carefree Living in Babbitt, surrounded by his family.
Merlin Clayton Solberg was born October 15, 1934 on his parent’s farm in Mayfield Township to the late John and Malla (Bagstad) Solberg, the youngest of 6 children. He attended Country School in Mayfield Township and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls. Merlin served in the US Army from November 1957 to November 1959.
Merlin married the love of his life, Maxine Anderson, in July 1958. The couple raised three children: Jane, David, and Terry and made their home in Babbitt.
He was a dedicated and hardworking man with over 40 years in the taconite industry as a diesel mechanic.
He had side jobs delivering fuel oil, repairing outboard motors, and accomplished earning his aircraft A&P repair certification in Fargo, ND. Hobbies he enjoyed were hunting, traveling, fishing, camping, snowmobiling and four wheeling. He was a long-time member of the Babbitt ATV Club.
The greatest legacy that Merlin instilled was the idea of unconditional love within family and the unbreakable bond it creates for generations.
Merlin is survived by his three children, Jane (Thomas), Dave (Delaine), and Terry (Diane); his four
grandchildren, Mike (Kelsey), Scott (Cheyenne), Courtney and Joshua: and great grandson Archer; brother-in-law, Doug (Cathy) and sister-in-law, Julie; several nieces and nephews and 7 grand pups.
He was preceded in death by wife, Maxine; infant son Robert; his parents; brothers, Garvin, Elmer, Orlando and James; sister, Iola.
Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 11:30 am at Evangelical Lutheran Church in Babbitt, with Pastor Christina Forsythe officiating. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to service.
Private burial service will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Tower for Merlin & Maxine.
Arrangements are with Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia.
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