Merlin B. Halverson

In Loving Memory of Merlin B. Halverson

Merlin B. Halverson, 82, passed away on May 6, 2024, in Lawrence, Kansas.  He enjoyed singing especially in his church choir and barbershop quartet, telling jokes, reminiscing with friends and neighbors, and working in his home workshop.

He was a proud recipient of an MBA from Iowa University and earned a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Kansas University. His engineering manager career included John Deere, Case IH, Kenworth, and Ottawa Truck.  Through his career he received several patents and was recognized by his peers as being a creative and innovative leader. His work gave him many opportunities to travel, including extended time in China, where he developed a love of exploring different countries and cultures.  He also had a passion for farming and was honored to be a member of the farming community in Iowa.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Judy, their two children, Lorann Halverson (Mike Hand) and Eric (Jill) Halverson.  Also surviving are his siblings Helen (Don) Beneke, Dee (Dean) Maupins, Robert Halverson, Donnie (Chipper) Halverson and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.  Merlin was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Alice Halverson.

The visitation to celebrate Merlin’s life will be Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 5:30-7:30pm at Warren-McElwain, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, Kansas.  Funeral service will be Monday, May 13th, at 2:00 pm at Good Shephard Lutheran Church, 2211 Inverness Drive, Lawrence, Kansas, with a short reception afterwards at the church. A burial service will be at a later date in Linn Grove, Iowa.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Good Shephard Lutheran Church or Wounded Warrior Project and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

Merlin’s charisma, witty humor, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.

7 Condolences

  1. Drew and Kristin Herren on May 8, 2024 at 7:52 am

    Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Eric and family 🙏🏻❤️



  2. Susan and Denis Sumrall on May 8, 2024 at 7:47 pm

    To the family of Merlin, we offer our love and prayers. May peace be with you🙏



  3. Glen and Ann Sinclair and family on May 9, 2024 at 8:26 am

    So sorry for the loss to Eric, Jill Halverson and family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all during this difficult time.



  4. Scott & Chris Orth on May 9, 2024 at 8:58 pm

    Sorry to hear about your loss. Merlin had a good sense of humor and was a hard worker, even recruiting many of Loran and Eric’s friends to help out with projects! Hugs to you guys and especially to Judy. We hope for comfort and healing for your entire incredible family !



  5. Tony Bushard on May 10, 2024 at 6:40 pm

    So sorry to hear about Merlin’s passing. I have great memories of singing in Good Shepherd choir with Merlin as a fellow tenor. He always had a smile and was brimming with positivity. Sending a big hug from up here in Lincoln and hoping that memories of a great man will be a comfort at this difficult time.



  6. Laurie BRISTOL on May 16, 2024 at 2:37 pm

    Judy-

    Sorry to hear of the passing of your husband, hearts and prayers go out to you and your family at this difficult time



  7. Barbara, Sonya and Ehrich Cooper on May 17, 2024 at 10:11 am

    Micki, Lorann and Eric, please know that there are so many hearts remembering you in prayer and so many loving you in faith that God will comfort you and bring healing to you during this time of bereavement. I know you will forever keep Merlin close, and I also know that you know Merlin has gone home to be with God! For that, we are grateful! You have our heartfelt sympathy for your loss. You have my thanks for sharing such a fine man; you have our prayers that God will continue to embrace you with His goodness and give you peace.
    The Coopers (Barbara, Sonya and Ehrich)



Leave a Condolence