Merlin Leo Stocking

Merlin Leo Stocking, age 91, passed away March 1, 2017 at home in Brooklyn Park, MN.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Rita Ann (Klinkhammer) Stocking; son, Nick (Deb) Stocking of Plymouth; daughters, Jean (Jack) Clement of Orlando, Julie (Bob) Mueller of Maple Grove and Joan (John) Randall of Wayzata; son-in-law, Jim McCarty; seven grandchildren, Braden Wise, Jordan Crompton, Adam Clement, Cory Clement, Alexandra McCarty, John McCarty and Michael McCarty.

Merlin was preceded in death by daughter, Kathleen McCarty; parents, Verne Stocking and Gertrude (Minnehan) Stocking; son-in-law, Steven Wise; sister, Vernice Blando; brother, Bernard Stocking. Also survived by brothers, Eugene (LaVonne) Stocking, Howard Stocking, Ronald (Jan) Stocking; sister-in-law, Rose Stocking. He is greatly loved and mourned by his family and friends.

Merlin was born on 8-22-1925 in Spain, South Dakota, raised in Britton, SD and graduated from Britton High School. A WWII US Army veteran (1945-1946), he was a lifelong member of the American Legion. He worked with JCPenny in Britton from 1943 to 1951. He then began his banking career of 37 years with First National/Norwest, managing banks in Hecla and Milbank, SD, before completing his career as manager of Real Estate Development in Aberdeen. Merlin held several leadership positions in banking and civic associations throughout these years. After retiring in 1988, he and Rita relocated to Maple Grove, MN, where they have enjoyed life with many family members and friends.

A wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, he will long be remembered for his love of God, family, country, friends and sports. With a high energy and engaging personality, he enjoyed many friendships within his extended family, his banking relationships, his community and church.

Prayer service at 6:30 pm.

Visitation one hour prior to Mass.

Friday, March 3, 2017 05:00 PM - 07:00 PM

Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel 15800 37th Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55446

Prayer service at 6:30 pm.

Saturday, March 4, 2017 11:00 AM

St. Therese at Oxbow Lake 5200 Oak Grove Parkway Brooklyn Park, MN 55443

Visitation one hour prior to Mass.