Merlin Irvine Baird, 93 of Melrose, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024 at Morrow Home in Sparta, Wisconsin.

He was born on March 09, 1930 to Olga (Arneson) and Irvine Baird.

He married Janice Mahlum on May 02, 1953, they were married for 70 years!

Merlin was an avid member of the National Rifle Association. He was most proud of his family from “Good Acres” or “Great Acres” as a family friend noted. He worked diligently and was continuously devoted to its success for 70 years. Merlin lived to work!

He loved reading about history and hunting stories. Merlin always kept up on current events and enjoyed discussing and debating world affairs.

Merlin is survived by his wife Janice, sons Lynn, Paul (Patty), Wayne (Sheila), grandchildren Melissa (Ed), Mark (Kim), Matt and Alexander, great grandchildren Addison, Genevieve and Norah, sister Alice, sisters-in-law Ruth and Rosemary, brother-in-law Lloyd and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, his father and mother-in-law, two brothers Shirley and Donald Baird, brother-in-law Donald Stuhr, grandson Benjamin and three nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Morrow Home for all of the wonderful care and kindness.

A memorial service will be held Friday, April 05 at 11:30 a.m. with visitation at 10:00 a.m. at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street Onalaska, Wisconsin. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.