Merle H. Gipp, age 82 of Shawano, passed away Sunday, April 15, 2012 in Madison. Born on February 21, 1930 in the Town of Waukechon, he was the son of Lydia (Krause) Gipp and Albert Gipp. Merle grew up on the family farm and lived in the Shawano area all his life, working for Weber's Plywood and Veneer for many years. He was a member of the St. James Lutheran Church. During the past several months, Merle was a resident at Skaalen Assisted Living Center in Stoughton, enjoying family and a great group of friends, who will dearly miss him. His Friends and family knew his as "Buck" and fondly remember that his door was always open. He had a tender spot in his heart for animals and would take in strays that quickly became his best friends. Merle is survived by nieces and nephews, Gail, Kathy, Mark, Jerry, Cindy, Cheryl and Susan. Merle was preceded in death by: his parents; brothers, Wallafred, Wilbert and Edward; a nephew, Scott; and a special friend, Carrie Christopher. Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano with the Rev. Ronald Raddatz officiating. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Shawano. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday after 1pm until the time of the service. Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano is assisting the family with the arrangements. www.swedbergfuneralhome.com