MERLE J. HAERTER Merle Jeanne Haerter, 86, passed away on Feb 18, 2015 at her home. Merle was born on April 20, 1928, to Merville and Thelma Loomis in Dickinson, ND. Merle grew up on a family farm southeast of Sherwood ND with her brothers Don and Bob. She attended school in Sherwood and was valedictorian of her high school class. Merle continued her education at Jamestown College. She graduated in 1950 with a bachelor of science degree in nursing and was one of four graduates in the first nursing program offered at Jamestown College. Upon marrying Willmar C. Haerter September 3, 1950, in Sherwood, ND they made their home in Cooperstown and resided there until their passing. Merle started her RN career at the Griggs County Hospital in 1951. In 1960 Willy & Merle opened and operated Crescent Lanes bowling center and cafe in Cooperstown. In 1970 Merle was appointed as the nursing home supervisor and held that position until she retired in 1990. Merle truly was a loving and selfless woman, making this world a better place for her family, friends and community as she had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and special. She will be remembered for her smile, laughter, and wit. She was always busy caring for her family, collecting and reading books, quilting, birdwatching, caring for her cat Mister, gardening, baking, canning, solving crossword puzzles, and volunteering. Music was an important facet of her life. She loved singing, and enjoyed playing the piano and ukulele. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church for over 60 years and was involved in Ladies Circle and quilting groups. She counted birds for the North Dakota Audubon Society and enjoyed activities as a member of the Town and Country Garden Club. Merle volunteered at the Cooperstown Thrift Store and delivered lunches for Meals-On-Wheels. She is survived by her children Barbara (Craig) Larson, Hawley, MN; Merville (Betty) Haerter, O'Fallon, IL; David (Jane) Haerter, West Fargo, ND; Connie (Jerry) Stokka, Cooperstown, ND; and Susan (Cole) Seaborn, Dent MN; 15 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren; her brother Robert (Phyllis) Loomis, Minot, ND; and her brother-in-law Paul (Erlys) Haerter, Williston, ND. She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband of 60 years Willmar, brother Donald Loomis, grandson Jacob Daniel Haerter, and great granddaughter Aubrey Jean Larson. Merle was truly devoted to family and friends. She was loved by many--her giggles and laughter will be deeply missed. Funeral services will be Friday, February 27, 2015 at 11:00 am in the Trinity Lutheran Church, Cooperstown, ND. Visitation will be Thursday, February 26, 2015 from 5:00 till 7:00 in the Quam-Plaisted-Cushman Funeral Home in Cooperstown, ND and one hour before services in the Church. A Prayer Service will be Thursday at 7:00 in the Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Saron Cemetery. To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of MERLE J. HAERTER, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.