Merlin Jay Harper, 66, died Saturday, February 18, 2017, at his home following a long fight with cancer.

Merlin is survived by his wife of 45 years, Judy; his daughters, Cindy (Nick) Hageman, and Julie (Jeff) Weaver; his mother Eileen Harper; brother Ronald (Carol) Harper; his granddaughters Tia Hageman, Shae Hageman, and Quinn Weaver; special family friends Rose and Kevin Smith and family; as well as many other close family and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Jay Harper.

He was born on September 27, 1950 to Jay and Eileen Harper in Stockport, Iowa. After marrying Judy in 1971, he began a lifelong career as a meat cutter for Hy-Vee, which would take the family to Rochester, MN in 1981. He remained with Hy-Vee until his retirement in 2012.

Merlin enjoyed wood working, fishing, golfing, and watching Vikings football with friends. He could always be counted on by friends and neighbors to offer a helping hand. Those who knew him best know that some of his favorite memories were made in "The Shop", which always had an open door and a cold beverage waiting for friends and family.

Visitation will be held at Macken Funeral Home River Park Chapel on Tuesday, February 21 from 4:00-7:00 pm and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 22 at 10:00 am at Macken Funeral Home River Park Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcome to Eastern Star Rochester Chapter 193 for Cancer Research or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.