Merlin Glen Wille

Of Barrington

Merlin (“Mert”) Wille, also of Marco Island, Florida, was born in 1932 in Elk Grove Township to Franklin and Emma (nee Kruse) Wille. He died recently at his home.

Before retiring, Mert was general manager for Meyer Material Company of Des Plaines. Over his 40+ year career with Meyer Material he worked his way from a driver to overseeing the daily operation of the company as its General Manager for 25 years.

Mert was a past President of Future Farmers of America, Arlington Heights Chapter, Labor Committee Chairman of both the Northern Illinois Ready-Mix and Material Association, and Northern Illinois Material Producers Association, member of the board of directors of Illinois Association of Aggregate Producers, and an active member in Illinois Ready-Mix Concrete Association and Illinois Road and Transportation Builders Association. He was a member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Barrington and served in the Army during the Korean War where he was a member of the US Army Band.

Mert had many interests and had a particular love of music and family. He cherished his family and spoiled his grandchildren. He played the saxophone, loved a good polka, and hit the dance floor at any opportunity. His activities included boating which he enjoyed year-round on the Chain-O-Lakes, Lake Michigan, and of course at his winter home on Marco Island, FL where he equally enjoyed just watching boats drive by in his later years. Born on the farm, Mert was fond of anything with a motor which led to his personal sanctuary which became known as the "toy barn". Here Mert could find solace in his favorite hobby. The biggest toy in the barn would become the bus that he used to travel to sporting events and visit many parts of the country. Snow skiing was another activity he enjoyed because it was a great way to spend time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Patricia (nee Arend); his sons, Richard, Robert (Tamra), and Randi (Susan) Wille; his grandchildren Derrick, Morgan, Andrew, Weston, Nathan, Rachael, Renae, Katherine, and Casey; his great-grandchildren Aubrey, Nolan, and Wesley; and his sister, Ardelle (Arthur) Burmeister.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral service and interment are private. A memorial service in Mert’s memory and honor will be held when COVID restrictions ease.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 720 Dundee Avenue, Barrington, IL, 60010; or to Lutheran Life Communities Foundation 3150 Salt Creek Lane, Arlington Heights, IL, 60005 https://www.lutheranlifecommunities.org/gift.

Funeral Information can be found and condolences can be shared at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or (847) 253-0168.