Merton Donald Lueptow

Merton Donald Lueptow of Port Washington passed away at his home on May 24, 2024, at the age of 92.

Merton was born on May 21, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Merton W. and Elizabeth “Betty” (nee Haas) Lueptow.  Merton was an identical twin to his brother Wayne, and they were the closest of friends throughout his life.

  Merton attended school in Port Washington and graduated high school in 1950. He then attended North Central College in Naperville, Ill., graduating in 1954.

After college he joined his parents in the family furniture business along with his brother Wayne.

  On Aug. 14, 1954, Merton married his longtime sweetheart Carol Dexheimer at the United Methodist Church in Sheboygan, Wis.

Together they raised three children at their home in Port Washington. They cherished time with their family, spending countless hours swimming in the backyard pool and camping throughout the United States. They were happily married for 37 years until Carol’s death on Oct. 20, 1991.

  Several years later, Merton met Margaret Creegan on a trip to Egypt and fell in love again. Merton and Margaret were married on Aug. 5, 2000, in Gainesville, Ga. They enjoyed 23 wonderful years traveling the United States and the world together. He was willing to drive anywhere in the country at the drop of a hat, even driving to Alaska with Margaret four times. Margaret was at his side when he passed peacefully.

  He and his brother Wayne operated Lueptow’s Furniture Appliance and Carpeting, later being joined by his son Larry. The three together made a strong team. Merton was an excellent appliance salesman who knew all there was about them. It was said he could sell a freezer to an Eskimo and his customers loved his charisma, honesty and kindness.

  Merton was a loved and respected businessman in his community. He was involved in the Chamber of Commerce, Port Washington Tourism Board and the Business Improvement District for revitalizing the downtown and attended Common Council meetings and more.

In 2006, Merton was named Port Washington Citizen of the Year in recognition of his valuable contributions to the community. On his 90th birthday in 2022, the City of Port Washington proclaimed the day “Merton Lueptow Day.”

  Merton was actively involved in the Boy Scouts of America and took both his sons on many camping adventures over the years. He was awarded the Silver Beaver honor in 1976 for excellent leadership with the Boy Scouts.

  Mr. Lueptow was a man of immense faith and a steadfast leader in his church, Grand Avenue United Methodist Church. He served many roles there, always supporting the church and his church family.

  Merton was known for being a connoisseur of desserts; he was unable to resist his sweet tooth. Kopp’s Custard was a particular favorite, and he refused to miss coffee hour after church because he could always find a range of treats. His love of sweets made him extra popular with his grandkids. He cherished his time with them and all of his family.

  Merton is survived by his wife Margaret; sons Larry (Mary Jo) Lueptow and Thomas Lueptow; daughter Lisa (Joe) Klinski; seven grandchildren, Patti, Jeremy, Erica, Danny, Tracy, Kayla, and Danielle; 11 great-grandchildren; brother Wayne (Marguerite) Lueptow; sister-in-law Amelia (Charles) Poole; and stepchildren Dan (Karen) Creegan and Kristi Creegan. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

  A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at Grand Avenue Methodist Church, 505 W. Grand Ave. in Port Washington. The family will receive visitors at the church on Friday from 2 p.m. until the service at 5 p.m.

  Merton will be laid to rest in Union Cemetery, Port Washington.

  Memorials in Merton’s name are suggested to Grand Avenue United Methodist Church or the American Heart Association.

  Eernisse Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.