Merlin T. Steffen, 77, of Peosta, Iowa, formerly of Holy Cross, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on August 23, 2024.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 27th, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a prayer service at 3:30 p.m. The Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 28th, at Holy Family New Melleray, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Born on February 6, 1947, in Dyersville, Iowa, Merlin was the son of Arnold and Catherine (Brunkan) Steffen. He married Karen Mueller on September 24, 1971. Merlin was a proud member of the Iowa National Guard. Following his service, he took over the family farm with his wife, Karen, and together they raised four wonderful children.  He farmed the land for 47 years then continued to work in construction for 20 years until retirement.

Merlin was known for his hard work and dedication, but his greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He loved playing cards, dominoes, and side-by-side outings, and enjoyed gathering for family dinners. Merlin cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often taking them fishing and spending time in his garden.  One of his greatest passions were his dairy cows, from finding him in the show barns to being an active member of various organizations. He enjoyed going to auctions, tinkering in his shed, building and fixing things, and he took great pleasure in putting up Christmas lights. Merlin loved his sweet treats and was always sharing mints with his family.

He was deeply devoted to his wife, Karen, with whom he would have celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary this September. Merlin is survived by his wife, Karen; their children Sheila, Tony (Heather), Nicole (Joe), and Valene (Shane); six grandchildren—Tyler (Rachel), Brittany, Casey, Riley, Gavin, and Olivia; two great-grandchildren, Lydia and Cora; and bonus family Katelyn (Matt, Allie, Cassie, Bradley) and neighbor Vince. He is also survived by his sister, JoAnn; his brothers- and sisters-in-law Jeanette, Nick, Dave (Dawn), and Elly, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Roger; his father and mother-in-law, LeRoy and Dorothy; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law Judy, Jim, Joan, Don, Artie, and Eugene.

Merlin will be remembered for his unwavering love and dedication for his family and the joy he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed.