Obituary of Merlyn "Toby" L. Storlien

Merlyn (Toby) Leroy Storlien 79, of Cambridge, MN passed away peacefully on October 18, 2016 in Cambridge. Toby was born in a farm-house in Lac qui Parle County (when doctors used to make house-calls) to Harold and Alice Storlien on October 15, 1937. He went to school in St. Paul, MN and graduated from Johnson High School in 1955. He married Diane Robertson on December 6, 1958 and worked as an analyst accountant for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad for 42 years where he met and created lifelong friendships. Toby was a fast pitch softball pitcher on an intermural railroad team where he was awarded "Best Sportsman of the Year" two years in a row. He was also an avid fisherman who took his children and grandchildren on the lake whatever chance he got, even if it was just to catch-and-release. Toby was also a duck hunter and bowler. On more than one occasion Toby bowled an over 700 series in the arcade classics. Agate hunting, collecting and polishing stones was a loved hobby for Toby. He also enjoyed cutting wood and splitting it by hand; he did this until he was 70 years old when his family reluctantly purchased a log-splitter. One of Toby's favorite times was Christmas at his daughter's house where he was the designated cookie decorator and self-nominated taster. Another passion of Toby's was music. He enjoyed Celtic Woman, Roger Whittaker, and country western. He even recorded many of his favorites on CDs for him and his loved ones. Toby enjoyed driving old-model cars (he owned three), but his dream car was a 1953 Hudson Hornet which was the first vehicle he ever owned. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. He will be missed by many. Toby is preceded in death by his parents Harold and Alice Storlien and his brother Dennis. He is survived by his loving wife Diane, children Gayle, Tom (Marla), and Tim, his sister Linda (Tom), grandchildren Travis, Dianna, Anni, Jenna and Ashley, and seven great grandchildren. Memorials may be sent to the local animal shelter or charity of your choice.