February 14, 1928 – May 28, 2019
Lorraine D. Merkle, 91, Noblesville, passed away on Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at The Lodge Assisted Living in Noblesville. She was born on February 14, 1928 to Victor and Marie (Mudrak) Herda in Chicago, Ill.
Lorraine grew up in Chicago and in her early years was a telephone operator for the City of Berwyn, Ill., before becoming a dancer at the Chez Paree during the Big Band Era. She met Joseph W. Merkle and the two were married in 1952, spending 65 years together as husband and wife before he passed on January 9, 2018.
They raised three children in Fort Wayne where Lorraine worked at L.S. Ayres at the cosmetics counter. She loved the competition of vying to be the top saleswoman. After many years of work, Lorraine and Joe retired to spend their summers in Noblesville and their winters in Meza, Ariz. The two of them were avid golfers and Lorraine played in the 18-hole group into her early 80s.
Lorraine enjoyed cooking and took great pride in preparing the Hungarian recipes she learned from her mother-in-law, Theresa, and the Bohemian recipes learned from her parents. She was also an avid gardener, carrying on a tradition she learned from her father, Victor. Most of all, she loved raising her three children and spending time with her seven grandchildren.
Lorraine is survived by her children, Patricia Merkle Ohlendorf, Mark J. R. Merkle (Sue Stemen), and Barbara Merkle Horn (William); and grandchildren, Charles, Alex, Arin, April, Parker, Victoria and Paige.
In addition to her parents and husband, Joe, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Virginia DeFrancisco and Ruth Stephens.
Mass will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 10, 2019 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 410 S. Pearl St., Cicero, with visitation one hour prior in the chapel. Rev. Dale W. Ehrman will officiate.
The Merkle family has entrusted Randall & Roberts Funeral Homes with Lorraine’s care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 410 S. Pearl St., Cicero, IN 46034.
Condolences: randallroberts.com
Arrangements
Calling: Noon to 1 p.m., June 10
Service: 1 p.m., June 10
Location: Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church
Condolences: randallroberts.com