Obituary of Merle Ragle

Merle (Carlson) Ragle of Markham, Minn., passed away on Oct. 23, 2016, surrounded by loving family. Merle was born in Virginia, on Aug. 1, 1942 to Margaret (Strand) Carlson and Woody Carlson. She graduated Roosevelt High School in Virginia in 1960, and acquired licensure as an X-ray tech in Appleton, Wis., in the early 60's. She was a life-long resident of Northern Minnesota. Merle had a rich and colorful life, and always she carried her family and friends (who quickly became family) in her very giving heart. She was always a dedicated worker. Though she eventually retired from the X-ray department at Virginia Regional Medical Center, she held many other jobs throughout her life. She managed the kitchen at the "Our House" restaurant in the Thunderbird mall, the "Dutch Treat" in the Coates Hotel, the kitchen at the original Sawmill, and was even a laborer at MinnTac in the late 70's and early 80's. In 1982, she moved to Markham, Minn., to manage the Markham Country Store, where she met her husband of 33 years, Garry Ragle. Merle and Garry were married in February 1983. With Garry she found even more friends and in Markham more community to give to. She learned to hunt and to fish and how to live in the country. Throughout her whole life, she loved to sew, spin wool, knit, and crochet. She also loved to cook large meals for many people, and loved to bake bread. Many of the people in Markham were warmer in the winter thanks to the many sweaters and socks she made and the meals she prepared, always with love, and a deserved but understated sense of pride. She was preceded in death by her father, Woody (1965) and mother, Margaret (1976). She is survived by her husband, Garry; her son, Steve Cvek of Red Wing, Minn.; and numerous loving cousins and friends. She is loved and missed by all who knew her. GATHERING OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS: 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 6, 2016 in the Colvin Town Hall in Markham. Coffee and sweets will be served. Another gathering for family and friends will be held in Duluth after the first of the year; an inurnment ceremony will be held in the spring in Virginia. All are encouraged to attend any and all of these events. You know how Merle loved a good celebration.