Merlin Hauge

Merlin was born in Dawson, MN on November 28, 1917, the son of Ole S. Johanna (Huseby) Hauge. He was one of twelve children who grew up on a farm near Dawson. Although it wasn't an easy life, his stories were always colorful and heartwarming. Due to the depression the family farm was lost and Buster joined the CCC program. When he was old enough he joined the Army and served during WWII. While stationed in Camp Kilmer, he met his first wife, Josephine. Together, they had two sons, Joseph and William. Unfortunately, William passed away in 2004, while Joseph lives in New Jersey with his wife. Buster remarried and came to live with his new bride, Gloria Grover in Sleepy Eye. They enjoyed over 20 years of marriage before Gloria passed on. He always enjoyed his life and neighbors in Sleepy Eye. Walking and riding bike were his favorite pastimes. He would always stop to say hi, share a story and probably a little song. I think it was impossible to leave him without a smile on your face. His humor and loving thoughts will be greatly missed. He is survived by his son, Joseph (Rosemary) Hauge of South River, NJ, special nephew, Leland Pete (JoAnn) Oleson of Sleepy Eye and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Josephine, wife, Gloria, son, William in 2004, brothers, Joseph, Selmer, Bernard, Oscar, sisters, Helma Grogsrud, Sarah Grogsrud, Olga Johnston, Gyda Trottier, Ruth Anderson, Juliet Hauge and Beulah Oleson.