Merle James Wegmann

Born on March 1, 1934 in Dyersville, Iowa to Ludwig and Nellie Wegmann, Merle formed his unsurpassed work ethic while growing up on the family farm in Iowa with his 6 sisters and brothers. This is where he developed his extraordinary “Merle” strength at a young age, and over the years “Merle-ing” turned into a verb to those who knew him well. As a young man, he enlisted in the Army during the Korean War and received an honorable discharge as a Corporal.

In 1963, he married Patricia “Pat” Clemen and after brief stops in Florida, California and Minnesota, they settled in Texas in 1970 with their 3 children. Merle was a hard-working and successful Sales Manager for Michelin Tire for 35 years. With Michelin, he and Pat traveled extensively through the US and Europe. He was passionate about his work and dedicated himself to making a positive impact on the lives of others, making life-long friends along the way.

In his free time, Merle enjoyed renovating classic cars, especially his 1928 Model A. He was an avid fisherman, golfer and BBQer. His favorite yearly event was the annual fishing trip with extended family to Canada and then Arkansas. He immensely enjoyed golfing and being a course marshal at April Sound Country Club where he played regularly until he was 88. Merle was known for his famous smoked salmon that became the centerpiece of all family celebrations and was loved by all his friends and neighbors. He was a dedicated member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe for many years and found strength, comfort and peace in his faith.

A devoted family man, Merle leaves behind his loving wife of 60 years, Patricia Ann (Clemen) Wegmann, and their children, Carlene Wegmann Todd, Angela Smogur and Anthony Wegmann. He was a proud grandfather to Henry (Smogur), Olivia (Smogur), Berkley (Todd), and Jacob (Wegmann), and cherished spending time with his family.

Merle was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was so easy to love and he will be forever missed. He will be remembered for his kind and generous spirit, giant heart, his infinite patience, love of meeting new people and ability to instantly make friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, who will always cherish the moments they shared with him.

Family and friends are invited to attend the burial service held on May 30, 2023 at 1:15 pm at the Houston National Cemetery and the Celebration of Life at 3:00 pm at The Frio - Hill Country Grill, 16410 Mueschke Rd., Cypress, TX 77433.