Merrick, Arlene Rosalia (Barnes) 1914 – 2011

MERRICK, BARNES, HAND, KJOS, FLYNN, VINTON, FRANKE

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 3/14/2013 at 09:46:14

Source: Decorah Public Opinion January 3, 2012, Page A-4

Arlene Merrick

Arlene Rosalia Barnes Merrick, 97, of Cresco, passed away peacefully at the Patty Elwood Center Dec. 28, 2011. Funeral services were a p.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at the Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home, 404 N. Elm St. in Cresco. The rosary was recited at 11:30 a.m., and family greeted friends from noon until 1 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Arlene was born Sept. 4, 1914, on the Barnes family farm north of Lawler. She was the second youngest of nine children born to Andrew and Mary (Hand) Barnes. She walked across the field with her brothers and sisters to attend country school once taught by her older sister, Evelyn. Arlene believes that getting an education provided an opportunity for the future. She graduated from New Hampton High School and then earned her normal training certificate. Arlene taught rural schools in Chickasaw and Howard counties for many years and continued her education at Luther College.

Arlene married Victor Anthony Merrick of Elma June 10, 1939, in Webster City. Victor and Arlene had a trucking business in Cresco for many years. Arlene’s love of education inspired her daughter to also become a teacher. During her retirement she enjoyed visiting with friends on the telephone, keeping in touch with current news and issues and listening to big band music. She loved and appreciated her home and the simple things of life. Arlene lived very happily there until she was 92, with the help of her daughter, various elder care agencies and special care givers Carol Melver and Jo Ann Martinek.

Arlene moved to the Cresco Care Center in 2006 and enjoyed the many musical performances given to the residents. In 2007 she moved to the Patty Elwood Center and received excellent loving care. Arlene liked to laugh and was full of fun even in her later years.

Arlene is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Anne Kjos and her son-in-law, Carlton Kjos of Decorah; and two nieces, Elizabeth and Martha Barnes of Lexington, Ky.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, George, Alvin, Donald and Charles; sister Ethyl Flynn, Evelyn Barnes, Gertrude Vinton and Florence Franke.

Transcribed from a newspaper clipping submitted by Janice Sowers.

Howard Obituaries maintained by Constance McDaniel Hall.
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