Merrick Goerdt

Merrick J. Rick Goerdt, 64, of La Crosse, passed away on Sunday, March 18,2012 at his home with his family by his side following a short, Courageous battle with cancer. Rick was born in Iowa City, Iowa on April 18, 1947 to Charles and Bobette (Merrick) Goerdt. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to La Crosse, WI. In his younger years, Rick lived and worked in many parts of the country; Madison, WI., San Francisco, CA., Fort Worth,TX., Fort Lauderdale, FL., Clearwater, FL., Miami, FL., and New York, NY. In 1992 Rick met his wife, Joan Brandt in La Crosse. After many happy years together Rick and Joan were married on May 3, 2002. Rick was employed by Northern Engraving for twelve years then in 2002 he joined with City Brewery. He enjoyed his job at City Brewery very much and was proud to be part of such a great team of people. Rick enjoyed spending his time relaxing outdoors, cruising down the river on his pontoon, attending area festivals and golfing. He liked to take drives in the country on the weekends and enjoyed his vacation time in Jamaica. Rick loved to watch his grandkids play and laugh. They always brought a huge smile to his face and a chuckle from his heart. Blessed and lucky were the people who knew the big heart inside of this strong yet silent man.

In addition to his wife Joan Brandt-Goerdt of La Crosse, he is survived by one daughter Tifanie (Michael) Davis of La Crosse, two grandsons, Colten and Hudson Davis, two step grandchildren, Lance and Brittney Davis, two sisters, Sarah (Robert) Schutte of La Crosse, Cynthia (Dennis) Schauer of Wolfebro, NH., two brothers, Jeff (Linda) Goerdt of St. Michael, MN., Peter (Stephanie) Goerdt of Los Angeles, CA. and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Bobette Goerdt.

Ricks family would like to extend a special thank you to all of our close friends who have given our family so much support and kindness. We are so blessed to have all of you in our lives. Thank you to Jeanne Johnson and Nancy Wynn who gave Rick a caring touch with massage therapy in his final days and to all the friends and co-workers at City Brewery.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Olivet Lutheran Church in La Crosse. Pastor David Baldukas will officiate. Friends may call on the family Friday evening from 5 until 7 P.M at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home of La Crosse. Visitation will also be held at the church Saturday morning from 10 A.M. until the time of services. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred and will be used in Ricks memory.