Merle Eugene Holsen's Obituary
Merle Eugene Holsen, age 96, of Winter Haven, Florida peacefully went to be with our Lord on January 16, 2024.
Merle was born September 19, 1927, in Lukin Township, Illinois, the son of Earl and Bessie Mae (Higgins) Holsen.
Merle started his career in education at the age of 18 years old after graduating from Sumner High School in Sumner Illinois. He received a War Time Teachers Certificate during WWII. His first teaching job was at the one room Buckhorn schoolhouse in Lukin.
Merle joined the Illinois National Guard in 1948. He and Donna Rae Mooe were married May 21, 1949. He was sent for officers training and received his orders to report to Korea. He was assigned to the Heavy Mortar Company, 32nd Infantry Regiment. He was a First Lieutenant, Gunnery Office on Pork Chop Hill. During his service he was decorated with two Bronze Stars for Valor and Meritorious Service.
After hours of study and numerous miles he completed his Masters of Education from University of Illinois and Specialist degree in Education Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He continued to teach and then eventually became District Superintendent for St Francisville, Hutsonville and Herscher, Illinois schools. He retired in 1984. He has had several students and faculty comment that he gave them their first job or provided them the support that they needed. His goal was always to do what was best for his students, faculty and community.
He is survived by daughter Susan Raye Moffitt and son in law Tony of Winter Haven, Fl. Grand-daughter Sarah Ann (Moffitt) Roane and Aaron, Grandson Alexander Lee Moffitt and great grandson Wyatt James Roane.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, brother Melvin Dale Holsen, sister Mildred Marie Correll, wife Donna Rae (Moore), Mary Elizabeth (Craig) and Gertrude (Paytner)
Merle has had numerous triumphs and tribulations over his years. His faith always remained strong.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy path.” Proverbs 3:5-7
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