Virginia Ann Merkley, age 87, passed away unexpectedly, after a very short stay at Bethel Home on July 8, 2012. She was born on July 27, 1924, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the only child of Joseph and Ann Sager. On November 28, 1946, she was united in marriage to Robert E. Merkley in North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and they celebrated 60 years together until Robert's passing in August of 2007.
Most of their married life was spent on the dairy farm in the town of Clayton, where they had four children. In the fall of 1949, Virginia was stricken with polio and she struggled with mobility most of her life. She loved watching the squirrels, doing word search puzzles, and spending time with her canine buddy, Santana.
Mourning their mother's passing are four children, MaryJane (friend, Mike Harnois) Merkley Zimmerman of Park Falls, Wisconsin, Helen Shanklin of Winneconne, Richard Merkley of Weyauwega, and Leland Merkley of Larsen. Preceding Virginia in death is her husband, parents, and two sons-in-law.
Per her wishes, a private family service will be held at Seefeld Funeral Chapels with burial in Brooks Cemetery. We so loved you Mom and you'll be greatly missed.