Merlin Harner

Merlin Lester (Sonny) Harner, 82, of 1200 N. 9th St., Opportunity Village, Clear Lake, died Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2012 at Opportunity Village.

A celebration of Merlin’s life was held on Monday, Aug.13, 2012 at Opportunity Village, Kenney-Lindstrom Center, Clear Lake with Pastor Rich Murray officiating.  Burial will be later in Harrison Twp., Swea City, Iowa.  Family suggests memorials to Opportunity Village Clear Lake.

Merlin was born April 14, 1930 the son of George E. and Violet A. (Anderson) Harner on the family farm in Swea City, Iowa.  He lived with his family until the age of nine when he moved to Woodward, Iowa.  He moved to Lake Mills in the sixties and to Opportunity Village in Clear Lake in 1973.  He resided in Twilight Cottage and then Bedrock Cottage.  

Merlin enjoyed puppies, kitties, creative art, duct tape art, making collages, attending music programs, playing in the bell choir, spiritual life activities and praying.  He also enjoyed going to movies, dances, shopping and the many family outings.  He was also a member of Green Acres Garden Group. 

Merlin is survived by his siblings, James (Delores) Harner, Luverne, Minn., June (Merlyn) Beckler, Tipton, Iowa, and David (Denise) Harner, Swea City; and his special friend, Pam Turner; nieces, nephews and his Opportunity Village family.  

He was preceded in death by his parents.

  Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel was in charge of arrangements.