Deeper Roots Episode 1: The Story of Merlin Witte & Dettmann Dairy Farm

Blain’s Farm & Fleet and Trevor Thomas of Inside Wisconsin team up to explore the people, the stories, and the statriotism of everyday Wisconsinites whose “deeper roots” positively impact the communities where we live and work.

We start with a story that hits close to home, Trevor’s Grandfather, Merlin Witte – Factory Worker, Farmer, and Stud Sheepshead Player.

No matter what name we go by, we are bound together by our roots. Imagine the stories that could be told by an old man’s hands. That is how Trevor Thomas started the tribute he wrote when his grandfather, Merlin Witte, passed away in 2019. His hands were just what you would expect for the factory worker and farmer he was. Merlin was someone to watch and someone to follow. He worked hard and played hard. He was committed to his roots.

Kicking off Deeper Roots with Blain’s Farm & Fleet, we’re excited to share the many inspirational and intriguing stories that exist across our great state. When deciding where to begin, Merlin Witte seemed about as fitting as the work boots he used to lace up everyday.

We start this story by speaking with those who knew him best, another family with deep Wisconsin roots, the Dettmanns of Dettmann Dairy Farm. Trevor and the Dettmanns recall stories of Merlin coming to help out on the farm after work at night and on the weekends. Merlin also took over and ran the farm for the Dettmanns while they were in the hospital having their children. It was agreed on between the two families that Merlin loved their farm just as much as the Dettmanns did.

Next, Trevor speaks with Mike, who is a fourth generation Dettmann. Mike recalls Merlin being present at the family farm his whole life. There was a great dynamic between the Dettmann and Witte family, and Merlin was like family to them. He was always around, doing anything he could to help out on the farm.

Mike explains that his roots mean a lot to him, and growing up on the farm was a different experience than other kids have growing up. He grew up raising dairy cows and he watched the farm grow to have over 600 dairy cows. He explained that, “Fun is where you make it”.

It is great to be able to tell the story of Merlin Witte, and show gratitude for all his contributions in his life. Deep roots matter, and Merlin’s story is the perfect example.

There it is, episode one of Inside Wisconsin’s Deeper Roots with Blain’s Farm and Fleet. For more episodes of Deeper Roots, check out the Deeper Roots blog posts or Inside Wisconsin’s YouTube channel and subscribe. If you’d like to learn more about the Dettmanns, you can visit their Facebook page.