Nancy Merlin

Merlin, Nancy Rice FLORENCE, ARIZ. Nancy Rice Merlin, age 55, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2008, at her home. She was born on Oct. 3, 1952, in Madison, the daughter of Walter and Lois (Bailey) Rice. Nancy graduated from Monona Grove High School in 1970. She then went on to graduate from nursing school. Nancy was an operating room technician for 18 years in Arizona. She was an avid animal lover. Nancy is survived by her mother, Lois and stepfather, Carroll Rice of Cottage Grove; nine siblings, Robert (Deb) Rice, Tim (Cindy) Rice, Rick (Randi) Rice, Randy (Patti) Rice, Sharon (Minnie) Rice-Minoso, Connie (Mary) Rice, Carol (Dave) Smithson, Dan (Jo) Rice, and James Rice; seven nieces and nephews, Cheryl, Bridget, Angie, Charlie, Jordan, Lindsey and Jessica; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Walter; and her grandparents, Alfred and Ella Bailey and George and Mildred Rice. Memorial services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 1 p.m., on Friday, Sept. 12, 2008, with the Rev. Shirley Funk presiding. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday. "We will miss our beloved daughter, sister, aunt and friend."