Merlin Behling

Merlin Behling, age 89, of Green Bay, left a place of love and entered a place of love, Wednesday, February 11, 2026. He was born December 20, 1936 in Oconto, WI, son of the late Wilfred and Evelyn (Ristow) Behling, and was a graduate of Oconto High School, Class of 1955.

While attending high school, Merlin enlisted in the Army National Guard. He served in the National Guard for 10 years. In 1956, Merlin was hired at the Red Owl Warehouse, where he worked for 33 dedicated years. Merlin met the love of his life, Jacqueline Salewski, at a carnival in Oconto Falls. The couple married, August 24, 1957 and shared 68 blessed years together. After leaving employment at Red Owl, Merlin finished his career at Pioneer Metal Finishing, retiring in 1999.

Square dancing was a favorite past time for Merlin and Jacqueline in their younger years. Merlin was an avid sports fan and enjoyed cheering on the Packers along with many others. His family remembers him mostly for his gentle nature and willingness to always place others before himself.

Merlin is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; his children: Brenda (Gary) Van Handel, Penny (Jerry) Lenz and Todd (Sue) Behling; 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, 2 sisters and a grandson.

Visitation will be held at Our Saviour Lutheran Church (120 S. Henry St., Green Bay, WI), Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 9 to 11 AM. A funeral service will follow at 11 AM. Burial will be in Nicolet Memorial Gardens. 

Special thanks to the dedicated doctors and nurses with Emplify (Bellin) ICU for their wonderful care.