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The passing of Norm Bauer, Joe Merkel acknowledged by Chelsea mayor at start of meeting

Norman Bauer

Both Joseph M. Merkel and Norman H. Bauer were remembered by Chelsea Mayor Jason Lindauer at the start of Tuesday night’s City Council meeting.

Bauer, 79, died Thursday, Jan. 17, and funeral services were held Monday at St. Paul United Church of Christ.

Merkel, 66, died Friday, Jan. 18. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, Jan. 23, from St. Mary Catholic Church at 11 a.m.

“The City of Chelsea would like to acknowledge the passing of two of our beloved citizens and honor their memories as well,” Lindauer said, adding “During their lives, both men exemplified so much of what makes our community cherished and vibrant.

He said both were strong and loving fathers who “lead by example and raised devoted families who continue their legacies of integrity, hard work and commitment to future.”

Joseph Merkel

Both were active in their churches – Bauer at St. Paul’s and Merkel at St. Mary.

Both also were veterans of the U.S. Military. Bauer severed with the U.S. Air Force in Korea and Merkel with the U.S. Army National Guard.

“They were both successful, long-time business owners who gave back to this town in countless ways over the courses of their careers and lives,” the mayor said.

“If you needed thoughtful advice, a listening ear or support for your cause, Joe and Norm were men you could turn to at any time for assistance.”

He cited their respective commitments to organizations and events such as the Purple Rose Theatre, the Chelsea Community Fair, St. Louis Center, the Chelsea City Council, Chelsea athletics or “any of the other many causes they were committed to, their work and dedication helped to assure the bright future for all who love this community.”

City Manager John Hanifan also commented on Merkel’s passing. “I knew Mr. Merkel; he was on council when I was hired. He was Old School, he loved Chelsea and he will be missed.”

The mayor concluded his acknowledgment by saying, “Our prayers, our gratitude and our deepest sympathies continue for their families.”

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