Nancy Merkel (b. July 25th, 1932, d. February 13, 2010).

Obituary

Age 77, died Saturday, February 13, 2010 at her home. Born to Leon and Clarice (Wright) Clark on July 25th, 1932, Nancy was raised on the Clark family farm in Lyndon Township. On August 18, 1948 she married the love of her life, George Merkel, who has two pictures in his mind-the day that he waited at the top of the stairway to get a closer look at the most beautiful girl to ever attend Chelsea High School, and the day he stood at the altar as she approached for their marriage, which was to last almost 62 years. Nancy battled Parkinson's Disease valiantly for more than a quarter of a century, yet though her body gave out, her spirit never gave up her zest for life, friends, family, flowers and crafting. When most would have taken to bed and given up, Nancy continued to get dressed and keep going-always looking forward to the next chance to visit with friends, attend a party or shop. Many will remember her as the flower lady-selling her bedding plants and beautiful arrangements at Farmers' Market in Ann Arbor, or from her backyard greenhouse in Chelsea. She was a member of the St. Mary Altar Society, the GBU and German Park. Her passing leaves a great void in the lives of her husband, George, son, Michael Merkel and five surviving daughters: Linda (Walt) Hahn, Ann (Rod) Salyer, Beth (Craig) Corwin, Theresa (Jim) Tietjen, Margaret (Bill) Stech. She also leaves 13 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter and two brothers, James and Robert Keezer. Nancy has now joined her first born daughter, Ellen, as well as her parents, her step-father, Dale Keezer, a sister and two brothers in a place where her spirit will celebrate forever. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, February 17, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday 6-9 p.m., and Tuesday 2-4 and at St. Mary Catholic Church from 6-9 p.m. with a vigil at 8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Louis Center, St. Mary Catholic Church, or Arbor Hospice.