Merwyn "Mike" Pahls

Merwyn (Mike) Francis Pahls was born July 12, 1934 in Tipton, Kansas, the youngest son of Casper P. and Anna (Junk) Pahls.  Mike departed this life peacefully in his sleep at Hilltop Lodge at the age of 83, on the eve of his 84th birthday.

Mike was raised on a farm and graduated from Tipton High School, class of 1953.  On April 16, 1956 he married Eleanor Schroeder, the love of his life, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Tipton, Kansas.  Mike and Eleanor celebrated 62 years together and were blessed with four children.

Mike served the farming community delivering fuel to patrons for 29 years, followed by six years of service station management.  Mike finished his working years at Carrico Implement before retiring in 1996.  He enjoyed dancing, particularly polkas and leading the "Grand March" at wedding dances for family and friends; woodworking; playing cards with his K of C buddies and countless hours of fishing and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, both which were passionate to him.

Mike was a member of St. John's Catholic Church and a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. As the Grand Knight, Mike was instrumental in bringing the Kansas 8-Man All-Star Football Game to Beloit as well as remodeling the upstairs of the K of C hall for community use.  He was also honored with Family of the Year and Knight of the Year awards.  One of the highlights of his life was spent with his wife attending the Knights of Columbus tour of New York and New Haven and the Papal Mass of Pope John Paul II in Queens.

Mike is survived by his wife Eleanor; daughters Melinda Parker and husband John, Concord, AR; Marianne Sahlfeld and husband Stan; sons Gary and wife Linda; Galen and wife Cheryl, all of Beloit. 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Siblings Helen Blado, Great Bend, KS; Angela Falting (Don), Topeka, KS; Lilliann Harris, Bosier City, LA; and Lawrence (Jean) Pahls, Salina, KS.  He was preceded in death by parents; grandson Adam Sahlfeld; siblings Casper (Bud); Jake; Ralph, Lewis; Dolores Powell and Rosemary Deneke.

Funeral services will be at 10 AM Monday, July 16 at the St. John's Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 2-5 PM with family present from 2-3 PM Sunday at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. A rosary service will be at 7 PM Sunday at the Church. Memorials may be given to the Church, Masses, or the Knights of Columbus Council #921.