Merle Hauer, age 81, of Brownstown, died at 9:15 a.m. on Monday, September 27, 2021, at Schneck Medical Center. He was born in Vallonia on December 18, 1939, to the late Ira & Edna Geyer Hauer. He graduated from Vallonia High School in 1957. He served in the United States Airforce from 1958-1962. He married Phyllis Ann Denny Hauer in Freetown on August 2, 1964, and she survives in Brownstown. Merle was of the Christian Faith. He worked at Cummins, Morrman's Feed, farmed, and retired from Deere Country Equipment in Seymour. Merle loved to golf and was a lifetime member of Hickory Hills Golf Course. He mostly enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and especially loved the time he had with his grandson, Nolan. Survivors include his wife Phyllis of 57 years, a daughter, Ashley (Chris) Krieg, and a grandson Nolan Krieg. He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Marvin & Nolan Hauer; and a sister, Iris Murrell. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 1, 2021, at Johnson Funeral Home, Vallonia with Michael Hogg officiating. Friends may visit with the family at the funeral home on Thursday, September 30th from 4:00-8:00 p.m. and from 10:00 a.m. until service time on Friday. Burial will take place at Vallonia Cemetery with full military graveside rites. Memorial contributions may be given to Brownstown Church of Christ or to Vallonia Christian Church. The Hauer Family is asking that all visitors please wear a mask while attending the visitation and service. Online condolences may be expressed at johnsonfh.com.