Geraldine Mae “Jeri” Merdler

MONONA/EDGERTON - Geraldine Mae “Jeri” Merdler, age 90, of Monona, passed away on Friday, March 30, 2012. She was born on July 27, 1921, in Des Moines, Iowa, to John and Erma Chipchase (Shaffer). Jeri and her mother moved to Milwaukee where she met Myron “Mike” Merdler who proclaimed her the prettiest girl he had ever seen. Mike and Jeri were united in marriage on August 31, 1940, in DeKalb, Iowa. They were blessed with 69 years of marriage and three children. Jeri traveled the world every opportunity she could, visiting England and Europe, the home of her ancestors. She also traveled to Mexico, Australia and New Zealand just to name a few. Jeri and Mike often traveled with their many friends and this always created great memories for all. Jeri’s work life was varied as she managed home, kids and work. She owned and operated in her early years a small refreshment stand called the Custard Cup in DeKalb. Upon her move to Milwaukee, she worked at Gimbels and Manchesters. She moved to Monona in 1952 with Mike and their young son Doug, and continued with her love of showing dogs. She acquired many trophies and ribbons showing boxers and schnauzers as her family grew. While living in Monona, their family grew to include two more sons, Michael and Scott. In the 1960’s Geri again took the plunge by starting her own clothing business “Young Set East” specializing in children’s clothes. She maintained this business for many years. When her children were older Jeri worked for Production Credit Association and worked part time for the Lake Edge United Church of Christ. Jeri’s favorite “career” began when she acquired the title of “Grandma Honey” and was able to spend time with her five grandchildren. We believe due to her influence they are all successful and productive members of society. Throughout her life Jeri, along with Mike, valued their many friends and used her talents as a cook and conversationalist to host many dinner parties and social events. Some of her fondest memories were those created with her many friends including the “Gourmet Club”. Jeri was blessed with many friends and memories but also faced challenges in her life. She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Douglas and Michael; her granddaughter, Kerrie; and her loving husband, Myron. She is survived by her son, Scott (Laura); daughters-in-law, Maggie Merdler and Karen Moe; five grandchildren, James (Chiaki), Amanda (John) Gasner, Michelle, Seth and Michael; and three great-grandchildren, Hana, Tacu and Fiona. A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2012. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona, at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 6, 2012. Memorials may be made in Jeri’s name to Agrace HospiceCare, 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg WI 53711. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Sienna Meadows for all the wonderful care they have given Jeri for the past two years. Cemetery: Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona, at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 6, 2012. Memorials may be made in Jeri’s name to Agrace HospiceCare, 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg WI 53711. A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2012.