Rosa (Rose) Anna Merkel was born the first child of Phillip Merkel and Anna Wickenheisser on March 18, 1931. She was predeceased by her parents and one sibling Walter.
Rose passed away peacefully on Thursday June 5, 2014, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Her last weeks and hours were spent in the company of her loving family and friends. Rose will be sadly missed but joyously remembered by her siblings Bill (Irene) Merkel, Arnold (Geraldine) Merkel, Margaret Merkel, as well as good friend and cousin Hugo Wickenheisser; nieces and nephews Paul (Cathy) Merkel, Brenda (Michael) O’Brien, Dan (Cathi) Merkel, Rick (Sheila) Merkel, Tony (Pauline) Merkel, Jeff (Mary) Merkel, Jarrett (Lisa) Merkel, Jason (Judy) Merkel, Heidi (Rob) DiDiomete, Tim Merkel, Trina (David) O’Rourke, Marnie Merkel and many grand nieces and nephews. She will also be remembered by the special families she worked for over the last 60 years.
Rose lived an active and full life. She ran her Bed and Breakfast well into her 81st year. She was an avid traveller and loved live theatre. She kept her dignity until the very end and was so very thankful to everyone for their kindnesses to her. Rose’s positive approach to life and her tremendous energy inspired her family and many friends. Rose was known for her generous nature but the gift of her absolute presence again and again is what will be cherished and committed to memory.
Friends and relatives may call at the W. G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron St., Stratford on Sunday June 8th from 2-4 and7-9 p.m. (Parish prayers Sunday at 6:45 p.m.). A Funeral Mass to celebrate Rose’s life will be held at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church on Monday June 9th at 11 a.m. Rev. Fr. Dick Bester will officiate. Interment will follow in Avondale Cemetery. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Restoration Fund, Parkinson’s Foundation or Sakura House through the funeral home. 519-271-7411. www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
