Merlin W. Geadelmann, age 78, of Clarence died Thursday, June 18, 2009, at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Merlin was born April 11, 1931, in rural Clarence to William and Milda (Schroeder) Geadelmann. He married Shirly Holling January 13, 1957, in Bennett, Iowa. Merlin was a dairy farmer and through his farming career he and his family developed a world-recognized registered Brown Swiss herd. He was a 50-year member of Brown Swiss Dairy Association and was named Distinguished Dairyman of Iowa in 1980. He was a member of St. John's Church and sang in the choir for over 60 years. Merlin was also a 50-year member of Freemont Masonic Lodge. Funeral services for Merlin will be held at 10:30am Monday, June 22, 2009, at St. John's United Church of Christ in Clarence, with Reverend David Mears officiating. Burial will follow in St. John's Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2:00-5:00pm Sunday, June 21, 2009, at Chapman Funeral Home in Clarence. Merlin is survived by his wife Shirley; son Kim and special friend Theresa of Clarence; sister Roseann (Terry) Schneider of Wheatland; brothers Wayne (Ann) of Adel and Gene (Margie) of Omaha, Arkansas; and special little friends Shane and Brandon. Merlin was preceded in death by his parents and son Kevin.