On November 2, 2022, folk artist Merle Renee Cruser (McCloud) born October 20, 1949 in Maddock, North Dakota, departed this cruel and heartless world following a brutal 30-year battle with Parkinson's disease. She was 73 years old.

Merle stayed stubborn and headstrong to the end of her days. She was forever up to some sort of impish mischief, as was her lifelong custom. Merle was the family rebel with a cause. After high school, she lit out for the west coast like the devil himself was chasing her, while her siblings roosted closer to home.

Whether it was flying crop dusters, hanging out at Haight-Ashbury, living in a commune or attending Black Panther rallies in Berkley, Merle was anything but boring. She took chances (and art classes). She lived life her own way. She was an interesting person to know and a hard person to keep up with when she set her mind to something.

While living out her final years in her daughter's home, there was no weather that could keep her cooped up in the house. She just wanted to be outside, rain or shine. She often snuck out of the house while her caregiver's back was turned, later to be found making a snowman, pulling weeds, or trying to feed the farm animals. She would come back inside with dirt under her nails and feet muddied, grinning wide, so proud she had pulled another fast one on whoever was charged with keeping her safe that day. Keeping her contained and safe was not a task for the meek or mild.

Parkinson's disease is not Merle's legacy. She was so much more than a tiny marionette being jerked about by invisible strings. She was a mother, grandmother, niece, sister, cousin, aunt, and friend. She was first and foremost, an artist. She will always dwell in the hearts and minds of her daughter and grandchildren. She passed peacefully on the day she was called home.

Merle is survived by her daughter Leda Turnage, grandsons Dylan and Ryan and granddaughter Lily. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Merlin McCloud, ex-husband Peter Nikolaus Korsukewitz, and her beloved brother Gary McCloud.

A memorial BBQ will be held after the snow melts. Donations in lieu of flowers are welcome.