Merle Hilgendorf

Merle R. Hilgendorf, 79, of Cape Girardeau died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2006, at the Lutheran Home.

He was born March 28, 1926, in Geneseo, Ill., son of the Rev. Carl and Elsie Steinmann Hilgendorf. He and Helen Badgett were married Oct. 16, 1948, in Geneseo.

Mr. Hilgendorf was employed in education 37 years in Illinois. He had been a band director, teacher, guidance counselor, and his last position was assistant principal at Glenbard High School in Lombard, Ill. He was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Chapel in Cape Girardeau.

During his military career he was a warrant officer and band instructor. His duties included training bandsmen and directing the military band.

Survivors include his wife; a sister, Lois Weis of Cape Girardeau; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home from 9:30 a.m. until time of service Thursday.

The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Barry Pfanstiel officiating. Interment will be in Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum.

Memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Chapel or charity of choice.