Merlin D. Schnitzler, 64, of Sparta died Thursday, September 25, 2008 at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.  He was born on February 15, 1944 in Monroe County, Wisconsin to Louis and Pearl (Larry) Schnitzler.  He grew up in Monroe County and he farmed in the Town of Portland.

     He married the former Darlene Holzer on December 22, 1982.  After marriage he worked as a roofer and then he drove truck for Dutch Mill and then for Higgins in Richland Center.

     He enjoyed hunting, fishing, being outdoors, traveling, and reading non-fiction.

     He is survived by his wife, Darlene of Sparta; 3 brothers, Ronnie (Dorothy) Schnitzler of Sparta, Don (Vi) Schnitzler of Sparta, and Gary (Joan) Schnitzler of Onalaska; 1 sister, Delores Peek of Onalaska; nieces and nephews.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother-in-law, Vern Peek; and a sister-in-law, Barbara Schnitzler.

     Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Lanham-Miller Funeral Home, Sparta with Reverend Randy Williamson officiating.

     Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services.

     The Lanham-Miller Funeral Home, Sparta is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.