Brenda J. Merkel

www.becherkluesner.com email@becherkluesner.com Brenda (Laswell) Merkel, age 78, of Celestine, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at her home, with her family by her side. She was born in Boonville, Indiana, on April 29, 1946. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and relished in her role as the matriarch of the family. She is survived by her husband, David O. Merkel; her children: Sheryl (Duane) Pritchett and Bret (Courtney) Merkel; five grandsons: Andrew (Erin) Terwiske, Dustin Terwiske (significant other Kelly), Spencer (Dana) Terwiske, Alex Merkel, and Jacob Merkel; two step-grandsons: Stephen Pritchett and Kevin (Lindsey) Pritchett; five great grandchildren: Everly, Lennyn, Taytum, and Beckham Terwiske and Chandler Pritchett. Brenda was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Goodwin, two brothers-in-law, and one sister-in-law. Brenda and David were married for 59 years and were high school sweethearts, having met her freshman year at Dubois High School. Brenda and David were married June 19, 1965, at St. Peter Celestine Catholic Church, officiated by Father John Finis, where she was a lifelong member. Brenda was a beautician after high school and owned several of her own businesses. She went on to become Director of Operations at French Lick Springs Villas, retiring after 34 years. Brenda was well known throughout the community, always anxious to catch up with her large network of friends. Before retiring, Brenda and David designed and built their log home one log at a time on part of the Merkel farm, which has been in the family for 75 years. It was their sanctuary where they loved to entertain friends and family. She was an excellent cook and if you attended one of her gatherings you likely went home with some of her home-cooked cuisine. She took pride in caring for their property and enjoyed sunny days on the tractor mowing. When she was relaxing you might find her on the front porch playing cards or reading. Her other hobbies included gardening, hunting, and fishing. However, what Brenda loved the most was spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart-to-Heart Hospice, American Cancer Society, Chemo Buddies, or St. Peter Celestine Church. There will be no visitation and a private service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made to www.becherkluesner.com

Brenda J. Merkel

April 29, 1946 - February 1, 2025