Marion June Merkt

MADISON-Marion June Merkt, age 97, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018, at Elmcroft of Madison. She was born on June 24, 1921, in Whitewater, the daughter of Hugo and Roberta (Miller) Schmitt. Marion graduated from Cathedral High School in Milwaukee. She married Carl Merkt on May 8, 1944, in Milwaukee. Marion was hospitable and welcoming and used her talents working for the "welcome wagon." She was active in her church and was always sure to introduce herself to new attendees. Marion was quick to help and generous with her time, whether delivering meals on wheels, coordinating church events, or giving rides to her neighbors. She loved feeding others and truly cared for those less fortunate. Marion was a mother, first and foremost. First to her children, then grandchildren, and finally to her great-grandchildren. Marion loved babies and was immensely proud of her family. She nurtured a spirit of gentleness, compassion, and profound love. Marion is survived by her children, Pat (Jon) Kressin, Mary Sue (Ray) Anttila, Beth (Chris) Halverson, Paul Merkt, and Claire (Mary Gernetzke) Merkt; grandchildren, Michelle (Scott), Bob (Tonya), Tami (Max), Dan (Robyn), Tony (Megan), Rob, Cheryl (Steve), Michael, and Sarah; many great-grandchildren; and sister, Jeanette "Sister Marielle" Schmitt. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; parents, Hugo and Roberta; two sons and daughter-in-law, Mike (Kath) and Jimmy; and brothers, Hugh, Bob and Ted Schmitt. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH, 209 South Street, Waunakee, at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018, with Monsignor James Gunn presiding. Burial will follow at HOLY CROSS CEMETERY, 7301 W. Nash St., Milwaukee, at 1:30 p.m. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018, with personal reflection and song at 6:45 p.m. and also at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Wednesday. Memorials may be made to a charity very dear to Marion's heart, The St. Dominic Villa at Sinsinawa, 2375 Sinsinawa Rd, Hazel Green, WI 53811. Marion’s family would like to express their gratitude to the associates and residents at Elmcroft of Madison Assisted Living for their loving care and friendship. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive 608-221-5420