Merle Grosskopf was born on December 5, 1942, in Lily, Wisconsin. As a boy, he loved playing baseball and dreamed of becoming a professional player one day. In 1961, he proudly joined the United States Marine Corps and spent four years stationed in Hawaii. After being honorably discharged in 1965, Merle chose to make Hawaii his home, where he met his wife, Maria Motas, and her daughter, Zandra “Dee Dee” Bartels.
During his years in Hawaii, Merle found joy in simple pleasures, especially dancing and bowling—two hobbies he truly loved. In his later years, nothing made him happier than watching his family grow. Spending time with his three grandsons and five great-grandchildren always brought a smile to his face and remained one of his greatest blessings.
Merle will be remembered for his warm heart, his love of family, and the quiet ways he made life brighter for those around him. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the love he leaves behind.
