Obituary of Edith Frances Merkel (neé Frederick)

Edith Frances Merkel passed away peacefully on Wednesday February 4 at the age of 103, at the Ruddy-Shankman Hospice in Ottawa.  Born in Ottawa on October 18, 1922, she was the youngest child of Paul and Mary Frederick, and lived in Ottawa along with her sister Gertrude and brother Walter. A graduate of Ottawa’s High School of Commerce, her early career was spent working in accounting and audit firms. She married her husband Carl Herman Merkel in 1946 and they would have 4 Children, Frances, Carl, Elizabeth and Ruth. Edith was widowed in 1972 at the passing of her husband.

Edith loved music, crafting, and writing, all skills and passions which she passed on to her children.  All 4 of her children took piano lessons for many years, and having sat with them to encourage practice and accuracy, she decided to take up the piano herself in her 60’s, in a turn of the tables, taking lessons in-house from her youngest daughter Ruth and going as far as grade 6. Never too old to learn.

Her great love was her family, which included her 4 children, Frances (Mike), Carl (Gerry), Betty (Sven) and Ruth (Marc), 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. She took a keen interest in each as to their interests, hobbies, progress in school, and recreational activities.

She was a happy person and kind to anyone in need. Having lived through the aftermath of two world wars, she was sympathetic to those who had suffered great loss.

A long-time member of the Salvation Army Church, Edith contributed to many aspects of church life both in leadership and as a volunteer worker. Many lives were touched and aided by her generosity and kindness. She taught Sunday School and lead the Home League (the church’s ladies’ auxiliary) for many years. She also worked for The Salvation Army Community and Family Services, and The Salvation Army Correctional and Justice Services in Ottawa.

Leaving her home in 2016 she spent her final years, first in the Lynwood Retirement Home and then at Stillwater Creek.  The family is grateful to the staff at Stillwater who took such good care of Edith in her final years. We would also like to thank the staff at the Ruddy-Shankman Hospice, who gave Edith such wonderful care and attention in her final days.

Her ever infectious smile and joy with life was uplifting to all who met her. Edith will be greatly missed by her friends and family.

May she rest in the eternal arms of Jesus.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ruddy-Shankman Hospice, 110 McCurdy Drive Kanata, Ontario. K2L 2Z6   (613) 591-6002