Merle J. Fuhrmann, 85, of Sheboygan passed away on Friday April 21, 2017 at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice in Sheboygan Falls. Merle was born on April 17, 1932 to Bernard and Emily (Andrew) Fuhrmann. He attended St. John's school. On January 7, 1956, Merle married his best friend Audrey Carpenter at St.Matthew's Catholic Church in Campbellsport. He was a dedicated employee at Kohler Company where he worked as a clay caster for over 41 years. Merle was an active member of Blessed Trinity Parish in Sheboygan Falls. He enjoyed volunteering at the church bingo events and serving as a longtime volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul. During his free time, he enjoyed bowling, golf, sheepshead, puzzles, and watching his beloved Green Bay Packers and Chicago White Sox. Most importantly, Merle was a loving husband, dedicated father, and caring grandfather. Those who knew Merle were blessed by his presence and his friendly demeanor. Merle is survived by his wife of over 61 years, Audrey Fuhrmann; four daughters, Joan (Kevin) Zimmerman of West Bend, Judy Clay (special friend Art) of Grand Prarie, TX, Jean (Rich) Lockwood of Cudahy, and Jennifer Fuhrmann of Menomonee Falls; four sons, Joe (Kathy) of Fuhrmann of Manteno, IL, John (Betsy) of New Berlin, Jeff (special friend Bonnie) Fuhrmann of Howards Grove, and Jim (Kris) Fuhrmann of DePere; 12 grandchildren; 4 step grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 8 step great-grandchildren; three sisters, Dorothy (Earl) Mannenbach of Kiel, Mary (Robert) Feyen of New Holstein, and Rosie (Gary) Lakin of Naples, FL; and a dear foreign exchange daughter, Tammy Chan of Hong Kong. Merle is further survived by nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. Merle was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, and one son-in-law, Larry Clay.A mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Merle's life will be held on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at 5 pm at Blessed Trinity Parish with Rev. Bob Lotz officiating. A burial will be held at St. Charles Cemetery in Fond du Lac. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Tuesday at the church from 3pm until the time of mass at 5pm. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Merle's name for St. Vincent de Paul and Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. The Wenig Funeral Home of Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is assisting Merle's family with arrangements.For online condolences and additional information please visit www.wenigfuneralhome.com