In following the recommendations of the Iowa Department of Public Health Disaster Emergency, as well as, careful consideration for the family and friends of Mervin, his family has decided not to have a public memorial at this time. A private family funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 10:00 A.M., the services will be live streamed on Oakcrest Funeral Services Facebook Page.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to United Hospital Hospice, Blue Earth, Minnesota.
Mervin Arthur Gramstad was born December 2, 1931 at his home in Kossuth County, son of Ludwig and Esther (Heggen). He attended country school in rural Elmore before graduating from Elmore High School in 1946.
Upon graduating high school, Mervin was a jack of all trades. His many skills allowed him to work a variety of jobs. Including, service stations in California, Elmore, and Buffalo Center and Swea City; custodian at the Lakota Schools; 13 years at Holiday Inn Maintenance in Fairmont; and he spent five years as the Activity Aide at Lakeview Health Services in Fairmont.
Mervin had a great love for music. He began playing the piano as a child. God gave him the talent to play by ear and he was self-taught. Mervin was an accomplished pianist and recorded two CD's. He shared his talents with many people especially entertaining residents at area nursing homes.
Mervin retired at the age of 80. Retirement did not come easy because he liked to stay busy, so he continued to entertain people with his piano playing.
Mervin enjoyed sports of all kinds. He especially loved boxing, and rollerskating. However, he was a big fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins. In his younger years he was an assistant Cub Scout Manager. Mervin was also a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Swea City.
Mervin loved his Lord and Savior. He studied his bible and prayed for his family daily. He went to his eternal home, May 18, 2020, at his home in Swea City at the age of 88.
Mervin is survived by his wife, Aldine of Swea City; children, Pam (Roger) Nelson of Swea City, Annette (Brad Rice) Gramstad of Rippey, IA; Holly (Jeff) Kelly of Pierre, SD; grandchildren, Adrea Gramstad, Erin Gramstad, Allyson Nelson, Cheyanne (Caleb Studer) Gramstad; great-grandson, Tate Gramstad Studer; and nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his cat, Rupert and dog, Shadow.
Preceding him in death are his parents; infant daughter, Janice Ruth Gramstad; sister, Lamae (Harlan) Sandmeyer; and great-grandchild, Jr.
Tributes
Andrea kunik wrote on May 20, 2021:
"I used to work at lakeview nursing home with merv and his wife, Aldine.
I\'ll never forget his sweet smile, his laugh, and kindness that he showed me when we worked together.
He will dearly be missed.
Mannnnnnyxxxxxxxxx and prayers to the family, this angel has gained his wings, and is singing joyfully i\'m sure with all GOD\'S angels, and walking on the celestial golden shores.
Until we meet again, r.i.p, much love, mannnnnyxxxxxx and prayers, i miss you, GOD BLESS YOU for all the kindness you have shown.
Your friend always
Andrea jo kunik"
Shirley Sheldahl wrote on Sep 1, 2020:
"My sympathy to and your family, Aldine. I didn\'t know that Mervin had died until Barb told me. We have known his family for many years; we were next door neighbors in Elmore. We had many opportunities to enjoy his music. He was a very talented man and enjoyed sharing his gift. God bless you all, Shirley Sheldahl"
Dianne Nowak wrote on May 27, 2020:
"Our dad, Wayne Stanley, was good friends with Merv. I remember going to visit now and then, the last time being with dad on his motorcycle. I also remember Merv and his accordian. Sympathies to Merv\'s family from Wayne\'s family. Dianne, Loren, Denise and Sandi"
Nicole Spear wrote on May 25, 2020:
"Aldine and family you have my deepest sympathy. I loved listening & singing with Merv when he played on the unit. Loved our chats and he always gave me a hug when he saw me.My prayers are with you."
Geri maday wrote on May 25, 2020:
"So very sorry. I enjoyed knowing and working with Merv. My deepest sympathy to you Aldine and you family. My prayers are with you!"
Audrey Schwab wrote on May 25, 2020:
"Soo sorry for your loss. He was a great man. My prayers are you and your family."
Nicole Bridgewater wrote on May 24, 2020:
"My prayers are with the family! So sorry to hear this horrible news. "
Sue Lawrence Eisenbacher wrote on May 23, 2020:
"Aldine and family, my deepest condolences on your loss of Merv. I came to know Merv when Aldine became my friend all those years ago. Merv always had a smile and a good word for everyone. I had the great pleasure of hearing Merv play the piano at home, Lakeview, a few hospitals and Holiday Inn. When Aldine gave me a copy of his first CD I was blown away, as was my husband. I wish so very much that I could have been with you today, but I watched his service, and it was so beautiful. I could easily tell the Pastor had great feelings for Merv, as did everyone else. Merv was always an inspiration to me and my memories of him will forever be in my heart. My husband, Dave, my sister, Linda and my niece, Amy send their love and sympathies. May you all find Peace, Hope, Faith, and most of all, Love."
Lori zoeller wrote on May 21, 2020:
"Aldine and family. So sorry for your loss. Hope your memories help you through this difficult time. "
Lori Anderson wrote on May 21, 2020:
"So sorry for your loss what a amazing, loving, and sweet man. He will get some good chuckles with my dad. "
Joyce Flugum wrote on May 21, 2020:
"Our condolences to Mervin\'s family. He brightened many lives. My father, Carroll Sougstad, admired Mervin\'s musical ability, and enjoyed singing along.
"
Jan Bettin-Baseman wrote on May 21, 2020:
"I always enjoyed his many talents! He was a very happy person. God be with you and bless you!"
Mitchell Hauskins wrote on May 21, 2020:
"Our thoughts and prayers with you all. I always enjoyed visiting With Mervin and his great smile and positive attitude "
Judy pingel wrote on May 21, 2020:
"You have my deepest sympathy!!you in prayers!"
Arnie kuper wrote on May 20, 2020:
"Condolences and prayers from Cindy and arnie kuper. "
Valjean Braadland Lockington wrote on May 20, 2020:
"My fondest memories is how he always called me Jeanie and gave me a wonderful smile and hugs. Also, going to the gas station in Swea City on the summer days with stayed with Aldine and Merv. He was always busy with something. Rest in peace uncle Merv. I will miss you."
Karen & Doug Penning wrote on May 20, 2020:
"So sorry to hear of your loss prayers for comfort "
Anne wrote on May 19, 2020:
"Prayers for the family. "