Merle Knott

Merle Ray Knott, age 75 of Trego, WI, went home to be with the Lord on June 25, 2023, after a 5 year battle with cancer.

Merle was born June 29, 1947, in Crookston, MN, to parents Henry and Pauline Knott.  As number 4 of 11 children, he was raised on a dairy and grain farm in Red Lake Falls, MN.  Merle graduated from Moorhead State University with honors with an elementary education degree - teaching 3rd, 4th, and 6th grades before going into sales.  Most of his career was spent in fundraising, where he earned many national sales awards.  He and his wife, Linda, bought and operated a motel for 5 years, as well.

Merle accepted the Lord into his life when he was 32 years old.  He loved the Lord and his family - and was dedicated to helping others.  Merle was a hard worker who also loved WI – and his chain saw!  He built many swing sets for the grandkids and great grandkids.  Merle showed his love for others at every opportunity.  He was a card playing, rule changing, competitor.  He loved to have fun and tease others – including Linda – saying, “I hope you made something decent to eat instead of embarrassing me like you did last weekend!”  Merle said this at every family gathering.  Pretty soon the grandkids were finishing his sentences.  All he had to say was, “I told Linda…”, and everyone would laugh.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Bonnie Klein.

Survivors include: His wife of 54 years, Linda Knott a daughter Paula Carroll (Christopher) 4 grandchildren including Mariah Cox (Alex) with 2 great grandchildren Christian and Alaina, Bryce Carroll (Brooke), Joshua Carroll (Ariana), and Sophia Carroll; 5 brothers and 4 sisters including Henry Knott, Jr. (Janet), Paulette Busch (Terry), Gary Knott, Duane Knott (Faith), Sharon Buchmeier (Val), Marge Nichols, Glen Knott (Maggie), Nancy Birrenkott (Joe), and Philip Knott (Beth).

Merle was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  He was man of his word and faithful – a man among men.  He will be missed more than words can express.  However, although we grieve, we do not grieve as those who have no hope.  Those who have put their trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior look forward to spending eternity with Merle and their Lord.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.