Merlin Archie Anderson, age 98, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at Our House Assisted Living in Baraboo. He was born in Melrose, WI on July 12, 1913 to the late Alfred and Jennie (Lindberg) Anderson. He married Harriet Ehret on June 4, 1949, she preceded him in death on September 6, 1995. Merlin and Harriet farmed for many years in the town of Sumpter. Along with farming, Merlin worked for many years at the Sauk City Canning Company as a Mechanic in the factory and the field, and also as a relief milk truck driver for the Sauk City Creamery. Merlin was an avid enthusiast of stock car racing.

He is survived by his children;

Gregory Anderson, Prairie du Sac; David (Shirley) Anderson, Waunakee; Kristine (Dale) Blacklock, Prairie du Sac; and Kevin (Rose) Anderson, Prairie du Sac.

8 Grandchildren; Chad (Tina) Anderson, Baraboo; Torg Anderson, Prairie du Sac; Kendra (John) Spore, Deerfield; Erik Marks, Waunakee; Ryan (Metka) Marks, Madison; Michelle (Ryan) Bailey, Baraboo; Amanda and Jennifer Anderson, Prairie du Sac.

6 great grandchildren; Gage, Dayne, and Chase Spore, Cameron and Dalton Marks, and Samantha Jo Bailey.

2 brothers; Spencer Anderson, Hotchkiss, CO; and Jerry (Diane) Anderson, Corpus Christi, TX. Merlin is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son John and by 3 sisters, Arlene, Helen, and Lorraine and four brothers, Victor, Garland "Bud", Levi, and Lyle.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the HOOVERSON FUNERAL HOME, 251 Water St., Sauk City from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm, burial will follow at the Sauk Prairie Cemetery.