Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
Born on in Seelyville, Pennsylvania, Merritt Tegeler married his high school sweetheart, Louise Noble, in 1947. He had committed his life to service for his Lord and Savior Jesus. In 1952, Merritt, Louise and three children drove the Alaska Highway to Glennallen where they served with Central Alaskan Missions (now Send International) until 1989. After raising seven children in Glennallen, the couple retired and moved to Wasilla where Louise passed away in 1993. Merritt married Irene Rowley in 1996. Irene sustained a spinal injury requiring a move to the Portland, OR area in 2003 where Merritt completed his commitment of service to Jesus. Merritt has completed his earthly commitment and has moved on to where “he will soar on wings like eagles“ (Isaiah 40) and where “death is swallowed Merritt was known for his many skills and hobbies.
Merritt leaves his wife Irene; children; Vonnie Stone (Mike), Dan (Linda), Wes (Karen), Jeannette Sutherland, Beth Virgin (Dan) and Amy Stevenson (Greg); nineteen grandchildren; thirty five great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his son Joel (Linda).
A family memorial gathering is planned. For those who wish to honor Merritt, donations can be made to: Camp Evangel 105 Camp Evangel Rd Pounding Mill, VA 24637
Victory Ministries of Alaska 64741 S. Victory Road Sutton, AK 99674
Alaska Bible College 248 E Elmwood Ave. Palmer, AK 99645