Merlyn W. 'Lindy' Sunie

ASHLAND, Wis. - Merlyn W. "Lindy" Sunie, age 88 of Ashland, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Merl was born on April 12, 1935, in Ironwood, Michigan, the son of Toivo S. and Sigrid M. (Warpula) Sunie.

Merl was an avid reader and fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. He enjoyed discussing current events, past adventures, and was quick to share his ever-witty banter and contagious smile.

Merl was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran, having served for 21.5 years. He also worked as a contractor to the Air Force and as a civil servant for the Department of Defense. As a traveler, he had been to 40 of the 50 states, six countries, three territories and one district. Merl was also a devoted supporter of veteran's care and Native American children's charities.

He is survived by his children, Maria (Anthony) Markos, Erik (Sherlon) Sunie, Gina Sunie-Lopez and Lori Sunie; grandchildren, Nate, Heather, Evan, Brianne, Areanna, Brenden, Cora, Samantha, Danika, Isaiah, Angelika, Ava and Brendan; many great-grandchildren; sister, Kate (Huntz) Stannisch; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leslie and Leroy Sunie; sisters, Jan Robinson and Marian Lippert; son, Michael Sunie; and an infant daughter, Carol.

Interment with military honors under the auspices of the United Chequamegon Area Veterans was held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, at Mount Hope Cemetery in Ashland, with a celebration of life gathering afterwards at Merl's residence.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask for your consideration in helping to support Merl's favorite charities, St Joseph's Indian School or the Native American Rights Fund.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen.