Louie Nicholas Merklin (Date of Death May 10, 1918)

MERKLIN

Posted By: T. Ryan (email)
Date: 2/22/2009 at 17:05:43

Obituary - Louie Nicholas Merklin

The Estherville Enterprise May 15, 1918

"TAPS CLAIM LOUIS MERKLIN GONE OF THE SOLDIERS WHO LEFT HERE BUT A SHORT TIME AGO FOR CAMP DODGE DIES IN WASHINGTON, D. C."

Death Came on May Tenth as a Result of Pneumonia and Pleurisy Emmet County is again called to mourn the loss of her third soldier in service to win the world for Democracy.

Louis Nicholas Merklin, who left here in February for Camp Dodge and was transferred from there to Camp American University at Washinton, D. C., passed away in theWalter Reed Hospital in that city on May 10th. Death came as the result of a complication of pneumonia and pleurisy. It seems but a few days ago since this young man was among us the picture of health. He was one of our typical looking soldiers. While death claimed him early in the service the fact still remains that his was the supreme sacrifice in this great cause. The fact he was chosen to attend this University in Washington indicated he was selected by our government as one of ability and deserving of the trust.

Mr. Merklin was born in this county in Jack Creek township the 13th day of December 1889. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Merklin. When he was still a child he lost by death the guiding hand of a mother. For some time he lived at the home of his father and about fifteen years ago he took up his residence in Wallingford with Joseph Kruger.Since the auto came into use he has been engaged in the repair work in a garage at Wallingford. Not only was he a soldier of his country, but he leaves behind him a memory among his friends. All who knew him remark as they speak of him: "He was a fine fellow." It's these fine fellows who make up an army that will win and he was among the brave boys who will win The funeral services were held from the Hawkeye theatre at Graettinger, this being the only place large enough to accommodate the friends, Rev. E.M. Catheart of the M.E. Church officiating. G. K. Allen of the Defense Council of Emmet County, delivering a short address.

The remains were laid to rest beside those of his mother in the Graettinger cemetery.