Erich Vaughn Merdinger, age 67, of Helena, died from pancreatic cancer at his home on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2013, surrounded by his family. Erich was born on Sept. 10, 1946, in Stockton, Calif., to B.G. and Lydia (Laone) Merdinger.
He spent his childhood in Manteca, Calif., and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of the Pacific at Stockton, Calif.
On Jan. 8, 1971, in Stockton, Erich and Sandra (Young) Merdinger were married. Erich’s career was in human services. He started his career working with developmentally disabled adults at an activity center in Stockton. After moving to Bozeman in 1972 he started the REACH Program for developmentally disabled adults, including an activity center and three group homes. In 1975, Erich and Sandy moved to Helena, where he worked for the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services until retiring in 2001.
Erich was an active member of Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Helena and in his personal time enjoyed traveling, hiking, reading and spending time with family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Erich is survived by his wife, Sandy, of Helena; daughters, Kristy Merdinger of Missoula and Karen Merdinger of San Diego, Calif.; brothers Ken (Anne) Merdinger, Steven (Joan) Merdinger, Peter (Linda) Merdinger; sisters, Nathalie (David) Belden, Margaret (Frank) Castillo; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ron and Vicki Young. Erich also is survived by his uncle and aunt, Robert and Peggy Merdinger and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
We wish to extend a special thank you to the staff of St. Peter’s Cancer Treatment Center for the quality care Erich received during his illness.
A memorial service celebrating Erich’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013, at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church, 3580 N. Benton Ave. Lunch will be in the social hall at the church immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Erich’s name are suggested to Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church, 3580 N Benton Ave, Helena, MT 59602; Prickly Pear Land Trust, P.O. Box 892, Helena MT 59624; or St. Peter’s Cancer Treatment Center c/o St. Peter’s Hospital, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Erich.
Jenny Wilcynski says
Sandy, Kristi, and Karen…Our thoughts and prayers are with you all on your loss, I have great memories from Hauser street and your family. Hoping all of your fondest memories will be everlasting. Jenny Wilcynski (Verzani) and Family
Kay and Jere Hoy says
Sandy, Kristi, and Karen – We were both so sorry to hear of Erich’s death. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Erich was a fantastis Father and husband and his memory will live through you three. Love, Kay and Jere
Kelly (Givler) Berkram says
Sandy, Karen & Kristy, I’m so so sorry for your loss. I have nice memories of Erich while I was growing up. I’m sorry I cannot attend the funeral. My prayers are with you.
Maggie Bullock says
Sandy and Family:
So sorry to hear that Erich died. I read the Independent Record online and was truly shocked. So glad I had the opportunity to work with him during much of my career in Montana. He did a lot for many people who never knew his influence. Please accept my sincerest sympathy.
Vonnie Jenkins says
Sandy & Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We got to know Erich when he was traveling for work. He was such a nice person.
Our deepest sympathy,
Motor Pool crew
Joe Mathews and Kathy Wilkins says
Sandy & Family:
We are so sorry for your loss. Joe really enjoyed working with Erich over the years and we so appreciate all that he did as the long term President of the Fountain Court Condo Association. He will be truly missed.
Thoughts and prayers to your family,
Kathy and Joe
Peggy Williams says
Sandy and Family,
I’m sorry to hear about Erich. I enjoyed working with him at DPHHS. May you remember all the good times you had.
Peggy Williams
Terry Frisch says
Sandy and family,
I am so saddened to hear of Erich’s passing. I am so sorry for you. As my supervisor and mentor for so many years I came to know Erich as the kindest, most gentle and most honest man I have ever met. I never heard Erich speak an ill word about anyone. A most remarkable man who we will all miss so. Peace.
Terry Frisch