Merle D. Oldenettel, 93, a lifelong Haven, Kansas resident, passed away Friday, April 12, 2024 at his home. He was born in the house his grandfather built in rural Haven on March 17, 1931 to Fred H. and Ella E. (Meyer) Oldenettel.
He graduated from Haven High School with the class of 1949.
Merle was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where he was baptized and confirmed. He served on the cemetery board and was on the board of trustees. He also worked with AAL Insurance for Lutheran church members.
He was united in marriage to Helen O’Neal on February 14, 1959 in Hutchinson, Kansas. She survives of the home after 65 years of marriage.
He was a crop and livestock farmer. Merle was involved with the Kansas Livestock Association, Future Farmers of America (FFA) at the Haven High School and the Reno County Soil Conservation, winning several conservation awards throughout the years. In his free time, Merle would research ways to improve his farming craft.
Merle enjoyed reading and square dancing. He loved being social, often having parties at the house playing pitch. He was an avid hunter and spent time hunting with his grandchildren. Merle also enjoyed woodworking and did all the finish work inside the home he and Helen built in 1994.
He is survived by his wife, Helen Oldenettel of the home; granddaughter, Kathy (Aaron) Nelson of Hutchinson; grandsons, Thomas Oldenettel of Augusta, Benjamin Oldenettel of Hutchinson and Robert Oldenettel of McPherson; and five great-grandchildren, Gabriel Nelson, Brayden Nelson, Ryker Oldenettel, Abby Oldenettel and Spencer Nelson.
Merle was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Brien Dean Oldenettel and Jay Devon Oldenettel; brother, Floyd Oldenettel; and sister, LaRue Hays.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 18, 2024 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Haven. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, April 17 at Ott Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or
The Salvation Army in care of Ott Funeral Home, PO Box 217, Haven, KS 67543.