Earl Mergens, Sr.

Earl Mergens Sr., age 88, of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 6, 1936, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Earl was the son of Ruth and Edward Mergens and little brother to Ed.

After proudly serving his country as a United States Marine, Earl dedicated his life to education and leadership. He served as a teacher, coach, Special Education Director, and Athletic Director, shaping the lives of countless students with his patience, encouragement, and wisdom.

A man of deep faith and steadfast character, Earl lived his Catholic values daily through kindness, integrity, and service to others. He found great joy in the outdoors—whether hunting, fishing, golfing, or camping—and he especially loved spending time with family and friends. Earl also enjoyed cooking, baking pies, playing cribbage, mowing the lawn, attending family activities, and supervising building projects. Whatever he did, he gave it his full attention and his whole heart.

Earl’s greatest pride was his family, whom he loved beyond measure. He is survived by his beloved children: Pam Mergens, Earl Mergens Jr. (Chimene), Paul Mergens (Teresa), Mike Mergens (Alisa), and Shelly Griffin (Joe). He was a proud grandfather to Leah Hochstein (Ben), Michael Griffin (Abigale), Justin Mergens (Maria), Jacob Mergens (Elizabeth), Zachary Mergens (Kierstin), Amanda Mergens, Jonathan Mergens, (Troy Schillinger), Hannah Ellingson (Jaden), Brittany Mergens, Kaylee Mergens, and Mikayla Mergens.

Earl was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy: Andrew Hochstein, Jackson Hochstein, Marli Hochstein, Archer Griffin, Jo Griffin, Bryant Ellingson, Cecilia Ellingson, Eli Mergens, Levi Mergens, Whitney Mergens, Breckyn Mergens, Brinley Mergens, and Oakley Mergens.

Though he will be deeply missed, his loved ones take comfort knowing that Earl is now in the presence of Jesus, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him, and enjoying the peace of eternal life.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”

A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 14, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes, MN, at 1 p.m. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, allowing all to gather and share in fellowship. A reception with family will follow, providing an opportunity to share stories, laughter, and the love that Earl spread throughout his life.