Merle Gelsheimer

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Merle Edwin Gelsheimer, 93, of Cape Girardeau passed away Saturday, July 13, 2024, at his home.

Merle was born Feb. 11, 1931, in Springfield to the late Henry and Mora Cain Gelsheimer.

He was a 1949 graduate of Central High School in Springfield, and then served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He was honorably discharged and returned home to Springfield.

There he worked in the grocery business and met Shirley Fae Maggi. The two were married in August 1958. Their union blessed them with four children: David, Jan, Laura and Cheryl.

Merle owned and operated several grocery stores in the Heartland. He was a hardworking businessman who enjoyed working. He also enjoyed golfing, playing cards and being with family.

Merle was a member of La Croix Church in Cape Girardeau.

In addition to his loving wife of 65 years, Merle is survived by three children, David (Tara) Gelsheimer of Benton, Laura (Russ) Gant of West Plains and Cheryl Cooper of Farmington, Arkansas; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; brother, Ronald Gelsheimer of Springfield; and sister, Trula Shipman of Joplin.

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Jan Slusher.

Visitation for the family will be from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum.

The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, in the mausoleum, officiated by Steve Vester, chaplain for Crown Hospice.

Memorial contributions may be made to Crown Hospice.

Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Sympathy messages can be sent to the family by visiting www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.