Merle Lebahn Obituary

Owatonna - Reverend Merle Ernest Lebahn was born August 11, 1933 in Washington D.C. to Irene Clarkson. He grew up in the Owatonna, MN area and he was raised by foster parents, Ernest and Laura Lebahn. After graduation he went to DeVry Institute in Chicago to become a TV and radio technician. He joined the central lowa Walther League group on a trip to California; this is where he met Judy. Six months later they were married and continued to live in Owatonna and raised their 4 children.

Merle was the tire service manager at Good-year, Harland's Tire service, for over 20 years. After the kids graduated from school, Merle and Judy left for Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the Lay Ministry Program at Concordia. After receiving his degree, his councilor recommended him to go on. He went to Ft. Wayne Seminary. He was ordained December of 1984 and served in congregations in Minnesota and lowa. After retirement he filled 11 vacancies and filled in on weekends. As the old saying goes "old Preachers never retire, they just put them out to pastor." And so he did.

Merle is preceded in death by his beloved Judy in 2018, his parents Ernest and Laura Lebahn, his birth mother Irene Clarkson Craft, his sister Doris Stern and granddaughter-in-law Tiffany Lebahn.

Merle is survived by his children: Steve (Robin), Dave (Lori), Sandi (Ron) and John (Kathy). Seven grandchildren: Layne (Lauren), Chris (Alexis), Justin (Jackie), Jason (Alise), Katie (Mitch), Breanna (Jason), and Thomas and also 9 great-grandchildren: Dexter, Axl, Tucker, Maddie, Elodie, Lily, Jameson, Jaxon and Kane.

Special brother, Mike Craft (Jan) and many more relatives and dear friends.

Give 'Em' Heaven!

Funeral service Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 11:00 am at Christ Lutheran Church, 1930 Diffley Rd, Eagan Minnesota. Visitation from 5 to 8 PM Friday, August 8, 2025 at White Funeral Home, 12804 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville, and one hour prior to the service at church on Saturday. Please call Christ Lutheran Church for information on live streaming.