Merle Hough

Merle D. Hough, 84, passed away on June 25, 2026, at Oak Crossing in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, surrounded by the love of his family. 

Merle was born on October 13, 1941, to Elmer and Effie (Berg) Hough. He grew up near Vergas, Minnesota, and graduated from Pelican Rapids High School. 

A hardworking man, Merle founded what would become Hough, Inc. in 1969 and later started Midwest Specialties based in Menahga. Through long hours and perseverance, he was successful and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. 

Merle will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of sports, and the importance he placed on family, friendship, and community. As a young man, Merle enjoyed playing baseball. For most of his life, he enjoyed playing pool, competing in leagues and even winning some trophies. He was always reading and usually had a stack of newspapers nearby. He was an avid sports fan and often had a game on TV, whether it was the Vikings, Twins, Wild, Frost, Timberwolves, Gophers, or in recent years the University of Kansas Jayhawks, too. Merle loved his birthday, jokingly referring to October 13 as a national holiday. Over the years, family and friends helped celebrate with many memorable birthday gatherings that he thoroughly enjoyed. He had a sweet tooth, and right up to the end, a piece of pie or cookie could bring a smile to his face. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Effie Hough, and by his wife, Evelyn 'Cindy' Hough. 

He is survived by his wife, Patty Hough; his children, Tom (Juliet Kral) Herbst, Brenda (Fred Willer) Hough, Julie (Matt Schultz) Hough, Michael (Cari) Hough, Annie (Richard Reidhammer) Hough, Vicki (Chris) Peoples, and Dr. Paula Hough; his stepchildren, David (Julie) Sherbrooke, Bruce (D’Anne) Sherbrooke, Blaine (Kathy) Sherbrooke, and Missy (Joe) McCarthy; his sister, Mavis (Andy) Frazier-Krath; many wonderful grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, too. 

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the staff at Oak Crossing and to the HIA Hospice team for the compassionate care, comfort, and support provided to Merle and his loved ones during his final days. 

Funeral arrangements are being handled by David-Donehower Funeral Home in Detroit Lakes, and family and friends are invited to attend a service there at 2 PM on Tuesday, June 30.