MERLIN EARL ROBINSON, age 74, of Worthington, died Saturday, July 16, 2011, at the Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND. He was born March 11, 1937, on a farm in rural Rushmore, to Earl and Gladys (Bryngelson) Robinson. Merlin graduated from Worthington High School in 1955; and later attended Worthington Junior College.
Merlin was united in marriage to Aldyne Carlson on September 5, 1957, at the First Lutheran Church in Worthington. After their marriage they made their home in Worthington where Merlin worked for Graff Motors and Martin Oil Company. They purchased the Martin Oil Company in 1978 and later built Plaza 66 convenience store and car wash which they operated until 1999, when he semi-retired.
He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Worthington and formerly a member of the Church of Christ in Worthington. Merlin was also a member of the Worthington Country Club, woodworking club and Southwest Fishing Club. He also belonged to the Northwest Petroleum Association. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, lawn work, computers, and spending time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed his morning coffee with the coffee group.
Merlin donated his corneas as he believed in organ donation to help other people.
Merlin is survived by his wife Aldyne, Worthington; daughter, Debra Robinson, Eagan, MN; son, Steven (Susie) Robinson, Worthington; four grandchildren, Christian, Jacob, Olivia, and Kate Robinson; two brothers, David (Donna) Robinson, Round Lake; Richard (Corky) Robinson, Worthington; brother-in-law, Jerry Horstman, Farmington, MN.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Julia Horstman.