Merlin Eugene Lodwig

Gene was born on September 29, 1937 in Akron, CO to parents Clarence and Gaurah Lodwig. He graduated from Akron High School in 1955 and proudly joined the Marine Corps in 1956. During his enlistment, he met his future wife, Gail Marie Werkheiser and they were married on June 24, 1961. They were blessed to celebrate 61 wedding anniversaries as a couple. Together, they welcomed five children, one son and four daughters.

In addition to his 4 years in the Marine Corps, Gene was employed as an Electronic Technician at the FAA for 38 years and served as Fire Chief at the Akron Volunteer Fire Department.

Gene was preceded in death by his mother and father; his three brothers, Merton, Elvin, and Loren Ray; his sister, Marcelyn, his daughter, Becky; and his grandson, Jeremy.

He is survived by his wife, Gail of Castle Rock, CO; his son, Brent (Amy) of Littleton CO; his daughters, Brenda (Mark) of Castle Rock, CO; Bonnie (Jim) of Evans, CO, and Joanne of Morgantown WV; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Gene was a caring and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be lovingly remembered for his uncanny ability to fix almost anything and his sharp-minded wit in telling hilarious jokes and stories. He played many a prank on his coworkers, found humor in almost any situation, and played a pretty good guitar. He will be greatly missed.

Gene will be honored at A Celebration of Life for immediate family only. The family welcomes donations to the American Diabetes Association or the American Bladder Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.