Merlyn “Merlie” Robert Raddatz, age 78 of Redwood Falls, passed away Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at Garnette Gardens in Redwood Falls. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2025 at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Redwood Falls with a livestream on the church’s YouTube page. Visitation: will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. Sunday, February 16 at Redwood Valley Funeral Home. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at church on Monday. A private family burial will be held at a later date. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Merlyn “Merlie” Robert Raddatz was born August 5, 1946 to Robert and Gertrude (Hartwig) Raddatz in Redwood Falls, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Redwood Falls. Merlie participated in FFA, band and intramurals during his high school career and graduated from Redwood Falls High School in 1964. Following graduation, he worked at Dekalb and Control Data, where he met the love of his life Ruth Weiss. They were later married on August 8, 1970 at Peace Lutheran Church in Echo. Together they lived south of town for a few years before moving to their current home southeast of Redwood Falls. For 40 years, Merlie worked for Morton Buildings as crew foreman. He trained his nephew Travis to be his successor and retired in 2010. After his retirement, he volunteered for the local food shelf for many years. Due to his health, Merlie entered Garnette Gardens on June 6, 2024. Some of his favorite things included going on “treasure” hunting trips and attending auctions, especially gun auctions. Merlie enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing and playing fastpitch softball. He was a member of the Redwood County Fastpitch league. Merlie loved spending time with friends and family. He would often stop after work to meet up with the guys for a visit or a beverage. But Merlie especially enjoyed his visits every Sunday after church with his brother. He even made sure to bring a treat for Roger’s dog.

Merlyn is survived by his wife Ruth of 54 years; daughters: Tanya (Eric) Schnobrich of Redwood Falls, Jeana (Mark) Dauer of Morgan and Alissa (special friend Zeney) Raddatz of Olivia; grandchildren: Jaden & Jordan Schnobrich, Colton & Clayton Dauer and Bryton Forseth; nieces & nephews: Travis, Tracey & Tara; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Roger, sister-in-law Eileen and best friend Joe Filipek.

The family would like to extend a special “Thank You” to CentraCare Hospice.