The whole gang celebrating Grandma Estelle Merlin's 75th birthday during the summer of 2004. Fifteen of eighteen her direct descendants made the celebrations in Wisconsin, including all six children and nine of eleven grandchildren. Two grandchildren, Ben Merlin from California and Beth Love from Asheville, NC, as well as Beth's infant and Estelle's first great grandchild, Avery Grace Love, were unable to attend.

Chris, Curt, Estelle, Lisa, Denny, Jan, Mark

Grandma with grandkids Amanda, Dane, Paul, Taylor, Molly, Kate, Dylan, Brock, Maddy

Maddy and Dylan

Brad and Maddy

Dane

Fun Facts: One of the largest tornadoes in national history destroyed Estelle's house just prior to moving from Belvidere, IL, to Wisconsin. She met her husband Richard Merlin at a square dance function sponsored by the Marquette ski club. Prior to becoming a dental hygienist, she thought about becoming a nurse. Grandma Merlin is a huge Green Bay Packer fan with Brett Favre being her favorite player. Her favorite food is prime rib.