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BORN
1942
DIED
2020
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Michael Merna Obituary
Michael William Merna, "Big Mike," age 78, of Columbus, OH, passed away on Friday, November 27, 2020. Michael was born on March 2, 1942 in Utica, NY to John "Doc" and Dorothy Merna. Michael is survived by his loving wife, Cathy (Perry); son, Michael Jr. (Jennie); daughters, Karen (Lisa Anderson) and Ann; and six grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Jack; Cathy's children, Matthew, Nick and Alison Buchholz (Paul); and two grandchildren. Michael worked in the food sales industry throughout his career, and eventually opened his own business, Big Mike's Sausage & Biscuits in the early 1990's. Big Mike had a passion for soccer, coached for many years, refereed OHSAA state championship games, and followed the US teams as well as the Columbus Crew. He could be found at nearly all Ohio State basketball games, and was active in the St. Christopher's Catholic Church in Grandview. He was a friend of Bill W. for over 30 years. One of Mike's favorite sayings was, "I do not intend to tiptoe through life to arrive safely at death," and that is how he approached each day. Throughout his life, Michael embraced the challenges that confronted him, conquering personal struggles so he could support others in fighting their own battles. He overcame complications from cancer for nearly twenty years, maintaining his positive outlook and helping others until he no longer could. Due to COVID, services are for immediate family only. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Nationwide Children's hospital in his name
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Merna
Sponsored by The Columbus Dispatch.
Emmett Bentley
September 27, 2024
I´ll meet you at the pass...
Emmett Bentley
Deborah Dodge
March 14, 2021
Mike was my second cousin on the Murphy side. I will always remember him as upbeat and loving. That big smile would pull you in and capture you. Great memories from Jewett Pl. and family get togethers.
Tom Walker
January 3, 2021
We were classmates at St. Francis de Sales throughout 13 years. He was a good friend. Sad to hear of his passing. RIP Mike.
Bill Wilson
December 9, 2020
Michael was one of my best friends I have ever had.Mike liked people and people liked Mike.He may be gone,bet he will never be forgotten.
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Scott
December 7, 2020
So sorry to hear the news. Big Mike was such a wonderful man. I know he was always there for my father when times were tough. Growing up with him as a neighbor always ensured there were smiles and laughter at the family get-togethers. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Scott and Tina Lewis
Joe Segna
December 7, 2020
Wishing Cathy and all family members my condolences on Big Mike's passing.
Knew Mike from St. Christopher Church where his bubbly personality stood out and provided comfort to all. His devotion to his beliefs was powerful and the same for his family. He showed strength and joy to overcome adversity and inspiration to aspire to excellent to the challenges of life. You are a model on how to live a full life and your reaching out will always be felt by all who knew you. May you shout joy and love to all the spirits and I am sure your soul is engaged in your new life of eternal wonder.
My friend of short with memories forever.
Joe Segna
Becky Black
December 5, 2020
We will miss seeing yMike’s big smile And hearing his stories. He loved others and it showed in how he cared and paid close attention to everyone. He especially loved Cathy and family. He always had candy in his pocket to hand out to the grand kids and made visits with them fun. He will be missed but we are blessed to have known him. He also loved the Lord and what a celebration they are having in heaven right now. We love you and are here for you Cathy. Any time you need help, want to get away or just talk on the phone.
Chanda Jordan
December 4, 2020
Cathy, my thoughts are with you at this most difficult time. I hope you find peace, in his. Chanda
Steve and Mary Stover
December 2, 2020
Our sympathies to Cathy and the family. We bonded with Mike and Cathy for many years during Ohio State basketball games. Mike and Steve shared a great interest in food. We will miss Mike; the Buckeye basketball games won't be the same without him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Linda Parrish
December 2, 2020
Cathy and family,
My deepest sympathies for you and your family at this sorrowful time in your lives. Know Mike was such a caring and giving person to everyone and loved helping others who were less fortunate than himself. He loved Cathy very much and always wanted the best for her. He loved spoiling his grandchildren also every opportunity he had.
Mike is now in heaven, no more pain and suffering but being Big Mike and helping take care of other people and making them smile. Helping other people is what made Mike happy!
Always here for you Cathy!
Linda
Linda Parrish
December 2, 2020
Cathy,
I am sorry for the lost of Mike. He was a caring and loving husband, father and grandfather. He also loved the neighborhood children that he came to know.
He is no longer fighting the pain he had endured the last several weeks but enjoying his friends, family and God in heaven now. He is once again being Big Mike the way he wants to be and serving his purpose.
Cathy, you will see him again only next time healthy and happy!
Remember, I am always here for you whenever you need me!
Love you!
Your friend Linda Parrish
Jack Merna
December 1, 2020
Will miss you Big Brother. Great times on Jewett Place. Save me a breakfast sausage in Heaven. Love Jack.
Harold and Marge Powers
December 1, 2020
Cathy and Family:
Mike was a very good neighbor and friend that Harold, Roxie and I are going to miss. His great smile and wonderful conversations were heartwarming. Harold so enjoyed the talks while letting Roxie invade your house looking for Bunny. He was a great man of faith and we will always remember him for all that and what he did to make our street a happy place to live.
Our Love an prayers go out to you and the rest of the family.
Harold, Roxie and Marge Powers
cathy frichtel
December 1, 2020
I will miss your smile, Mike. I'm happy to have known you. You are a great man
Jeannie conley
December 1, 2020
Cathy, our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I will miss his smile and friendship. He was such a terrific neighbor and I know every dog on the street will miss the loving he gave them. If you need ANYTHING.... please let us know.
May God bring you peace and comfort
Shane, Jeannie, Jared, Kelly and Payton Conley
Joan Byrne
December 1, 2020
He probably knows everyone in heaven already. Our sister truly loved you. Joan and Mary Ann
Brett Esquivel
December 1, 2020
What a loving tribute, Cathy. Our street won’t be the same without him tinkering, talking and smiling...but we will all be here with you.
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