Merle A. Schoess

Merle Adrienne Schoess, loving mother and grandmother passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus at the age of 90 on February 21, 2026. She was born in Minneapolis as the only child of Norman and Florence Haapoja. Merle was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years Alden and by her granddaughter Kelsey. She is survived by her children Jeff (Linda), Julie (Jim), Mark (Sandy) and Mary (Mark); additional family includes 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. In 1954, Merle married the love of her life Alden and they supported each other through all of life’s challenges while raising a family. Merle and Alden spent the last 55 years living in their secluded Afton, MN home. She also loved spending time at their cabin located near Alexandria, MN. Sitting on the dock fishing and watching the sunset is where she always wanted to be. Merle was a passionate artist, known for her vibrant paintings and exquisite quilting art that amazed everyone who experienced her creativity. Teaching family and friends how to draw and paint was also a favorite activity. Merle’s life was deeply rooted in her love for her family. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her many wonderful friends were her greatest legacy. Merle, along with her husband Alden had a foundational role in starting and growing Shepherd of the Valley Church in Afton, MN. Her deep faith served as her guiding light, offering strength and comfort throughout her life.

A visitation will be March 8th 4-7pm at O'Connell Funeral Home in Hudson, WI and a visitation March 9th 10-11am at Shepherd of the Valley Church in Afton, MN, with a funeral service at 11am and lunch to follow. Memorials preferred to Shepherd of the Valley Church in Afton, MN.