HAERLE, Arthur Edward

Leader Telegram.com August 2012 Arthur Edward Haerle, 77, formerly of Eau Claire, passed on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 in Prescott, AZ. Arthur, eldest of three siblings, was born on July 31, 1935 in Chicago, IL to Arthur and Myrtle Haerle. Arthur leaves behind his wife, Ella; daughters, Lynnae Haerle (Brian) Burns and Susan Haerle Merten (John Davies); dear grandson, George; brother, Ralph (Sharon) Haerle; cousins, Joyce and Gerald and a host of friends and former students. Growing up in Chicago, Arthur got to appreciate all the landmarks of the city- from the neighborhood library to Riverview Park to the Art Institute. One of his childhood goals was to read every book in the local library and this love of reading continued throughout his life. His leadership in the Methodist Youth Fellowship eventually helped him make the decision to attend seminary after college. He taught math in Dundee and served as pastor in Pearl City, IL before moving to Eau Claire , WI as assistant pastor at Lake Street Methodist Church. When the opportunity arose to work with children again at the Lorenz Institute, now the Eau Claire Academy, Arthur eagerly accepted the challenge. He was able to use many of his talents as program director, chaplain and math teacher. After many years of night and summer classes while working and raising his girls, he also became the school psychologist for the Academy. His work there began in 1967 and continued until 1984, with a two year break working for CESA 10. The next phase of his life was serving as school psychologist for the children of the American soldiers in the Dept. of Defense Schools in the Kaiserslautern, Germany area. After fourteen years of working, learning, and traveling in all parts of Europe, retirement in Arizona was an exciting prospect. Arthur enjoyed this freedom continuing to explore other parts of the world and to make new friends. Arthur will be greatly missed by those who knew him. His wit and puns made us laugh and groan. His industry and perseverance inspired envy and fueled our own efforts. Arthur produced reports and paperwork that were the model for other psych reports. He was the leader in making use of the computer and created programs that were eagerly used by co-workers to streamline the work. He generously gave time and effort to projects that needed to be done, often with a flourish of creativity added. His care and gentleness made us feel accepted and uplifted and his charm with children was unfailing. His musical talent on the accordion is fondly remembered by young and old. A celebration of Arthur's life will take place on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at the Eau Claire Academy, 550 N. Dewey Street, Eau Claire, WI 54703 from 2 to 4 p.m. Should you wish to make a donation in memory of Arthur, please consider the local Alzheimer Association or your favorite children's charity.