Barbara Joan Merkel

Barbara Joan Merkel Barbara Joan Merkel, age 72, passed into the loving arms of God on August 23, 2012, surrounded by her family at home. She brought light and joy into the hearts of everyone who knew her. Barb was a model of quiet strength for her family, even during her long battle with cancer. God gave her enough time on Earth to celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary and witness the birth of her first grandchild, Lucy. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Barb was born September 22, 1939. She met the love of her life, Gene, when she was just 16 years old. They were married on June 16, 1962, during a candlelight service at Cleveland's West Boulevard Christian Church and honeymooned at Niagara Falls. Barb gave birth to two daughters, both of whom still reside in the area. After living for a time in Ohio and Iowa, the family settled in Battle Creek in 1980. Over the years, Barb held a variety of jobs, but her favorite job of all was being Sharon and Kim's mom. She was a talented artist, florist, and lifelong volunteer for organization's such as the PTA, Girl Scouts, and Bibles for Missions. She enjoyed visiting with friends, boating, playing cards, RV camping and spending time with her daughters and granddaughter. When her husband Gene retired, the couple began traveling to America's spectacular national parks, and Grand Teton was their favorite. The couple also spent their winters in Bradenton, FL, where they made many new and treasured friends. Barb is survived by her loving and dedicated husband, Gene, their two daughters, Sharon (Peter) Kobs and Kim (Dann) Moesta, as well as a granddaughter, Luciana Sarah Joan Moesta, and a host of friends. A memorial service celebrating Barb's life will be held at First Wesleyan Church in Battle Creek on Saturday, Sept. 8, at 11:00 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to the Bronson Battle Creek Cancer Care Center. The family is being served by Shaw Funeral Home. www.shawfuneralhome.com.