Merle Schneidewind, 78, passed away on December 2, 2023 after a valiant battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Merle was born November 22, 1945 in Minneapolis, MN to Merle Edward Schneidewind and Maggie Cooper. After graduating from Robbinsdale High School, Merle enlisted in the Marine Corps and was stationed in San Diego, CA. When his service was completed he returned to Minneapolis to study at the University of Minnesota where he earned his bachelor's degree. Merle continued with his education at the University of San Diego School of Law, graduating with top honors. He remained in San Diego and never understood why anyone would live anywhere else.

Merle had a profound respect for and love of the law. In his 50 years of practice he handled groundbreaking and high-profile cases in many areas of law, tried cases throughout the country and represented international clients. He was equally comfortable in front of a jury or arguing before the U.S. Courts of Appeals and California Supreme Court. Merle ultimately settled into criminal defense law, a practice he deemed noble. He practiced law until he was no longer physically able, his passion and commitment never faltering.

Merle was also delighted to become a published author of two novels and a recently completed children’s book. He was ever curious and always excited to learn about something new, which fueled his love for travel. From the Soviet Union to Cuba, Tahiti to the Galapagos, Merle loved exploring the world and meeting the people in it. His generous nature and unwavering positive outlook will be missed greatly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Tommy Seidel (nee Lisa Schneidewind) and brother Michael Schneidewind.

He is survived by his companion Dee Fort, her children and grandchildren, daughter Meg Adkisson (John), sisters Mindy Christiansen (Gary) and Marcy Edwards, grandsons Paul Schneidewind, Samuel Adkisson and William Adkisson, great-grandson Tyler Schneidewind as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins.

“Once a Marine, always a Marine”   Semper Fi

Merle will be interred at Miramar National Cemetery on January 12th, 2024 at 12:30 p.m.

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