Merritt Reno Marquardt

Merritt Reno Marquardt passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 2, 2026.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, Betty Marquardt. Merritt and Betty were married on December 8th, 1956.

He is survived by his children, Andrew Marquardt (Joyce deceased), Lisa Murphy (John) and Amy Elmer (Greg); his grandchildren Nicole Kimbrell (Quincy), Sarah Marquardt, Michelle Peters (Joe), Tom Murphy (Hannah), Josh Elmer (Abby), and Emily Elmer; and his five great-grandchildren, Ellie and Grace Peters, James and Henry Murphy and William Elmer. Merritt was born in Wausau, Wisconsin on December 5, 1934, and was raised by his parents Nora and Reno Marquardt. He was proceeded in death by his brother Karl Marquardt. He is survived by his brothers Judsen and William Marquardt.

He graduated from Wausau High School, class of 1952. He then went on to earn a degree in Political Science from University of Wisconsin – Madison, class of 1956. Upon graduation he commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy where he served for three years. He earned his JD from George Washington University in 1964.

Throughout his life, Merritt was known for his love of knowledge. He was a voracious reader. Many of his friends marveled at his collection of books and would comment that he had more books in his house than the library of congress.

Merritt’s passion for information on a host of topics was insatiable. He would never hesitate to ask in-depth questions when meeting people and learning of their work experience and interests.

As a corporate attorney at 3M, Merritt achieved a high degree of success and respect within the Office of Legal Council

In his spare time Merritt took the family camping in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) where the kids learned the meaning of working together in order to achieve a successful adventure. As the Boundary Water canoe trips came to conclusion, Merritt and Betty purchased a place on Bay Lake in Minnesota where they spent many a time with family and friends creating fond memories for everyone. Merritt also loved golfing with his friends, relatives and coworkers.

After retirement, Merritt became intimately involved in the University of Minnesota Osher, Life Long Learning Institute (OLLI). During his tenure as President, he taught courses on political discourse, history and geography as well as bringing in other renowned speakers.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Bay Lake Improvement Association (https://baylake.com/make-your-secure-payment/).

Celebration of life July 22, 2026, 2195 Woodlane Dr, Woodbury, MN 55125