Obituaries : Betty Merchant

Surrounded by her loving family, Betty Merchant, 92, of Garrison, passed away peacefully, at her home, on Friday, May 23, 2025. Graveside service will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 30, 2025, at Big Grove Cemetery, rural Garrison. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 29, at Van Steenhuyse-Teahen Funeral Home.

Betty, known as "Grandma Betty" to most, was born December 2, 1932, in rural Garrison, the daughter of Eli and Gertie (Lewis) Grimm. She was a graduate of Garrison High School. In 1950, Betty was united in marriage to R. Dean Merchant at the Methodist Church in Garrison. Together they made their home on their family farm in rural Garrison. In addition to being a farm wife, Betty was also a nurse aide at Virginia Gay Hospital for 20 years.

In her leisure time, Betty enjoyed knitting, crocheting lace, gardening, reading, furniture upholstery, and baking. She was very active in 4-H as a leader and helping her daughters, granddaughters, and great-grandchildren with their 4-H projects.

Betty is survived by her daughters: Rhonda Knockel of St. Louis, MO, Debbie (Craig) Ollinger of Vinton, Susan (Alan) Kakac of Garrison, and Denise (Jeff) Starits of Marshalltown; grandchildren: Nikki (Sean) Evans, Jeff Knockel, Billy (Jessica) Ollinger, Mike (Holly) Ollinger, Rachael (Matt) Guerttman, Sarah (David) Weber, Jenni (Scott) Birker, Becky (Shane) Lutgen, Eric Kakac, Ben (Sam) Starits, and Tony Starits, and; 19 great-grandchildren; and her cat companion, Pepper.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Dean; and great-grandson, Aiden.

A memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice Compassus for the wonderful care and love given to Betty.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.teahenfuneralhome.com