Marjorie Catherine Merten

Marjorie Catherine Merten, née Carle—love, the one word that embodies a woman so special to so many. After 89 years of life, her Savior escorted her into Heaven on April 23, where she now sits smiling, and holding great-grandson JP with her daughter-in-law Vicki by her side. During her transition, her Savior reflected on her life of triumphs, successes, challenges, and losses, commending her on a job well done. He showed her how her marriage and five children grew into the blessings of 20 grandchildren. In all, her love and faith have resulted in 21 marriages, building a foundation of faith for four generations and many more to come.

Growing up in a large West Side Catholic family, her faith, family, and friends were central to her life. She was a devoted friend, daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—a woman of faith. The relationships she nurtured were timeless and priceless. Her legacy is one of humility and a lasting impact of love. Her “come as you are” approach to people was central to who she was. Mom was always uplifting, humble, engaging, and attentive—making everyone feel known. While raising five children and living through multiple bouts of cancer, she also opened her home to foster children. She parented her children with unwavering confidence and devotion.

Wife to William Merten, sister to (the late Ralph Carle), Miriam Carle, (the late Lois Kunkel), Janet Janson, Eileen Fox, Patricia Schloemer, Judy Heflin. Mother to Julie (Rich) Bauer, Karen (John) Reilly, Jenny (Scott) Phillips, Patrick (the late Vicki) Merten, and Dan (Jen) Merten. Grandchildren Alison (Josh) Stephens, Molly (Craig) Hunter, Jessica (Matthew) Schwertman, Liz (Pat) Lillie, Olivia (Tyler) Boshane, Sam (Kait) Reilly, Abby (Rob) Rasmussen, Will (Anna) Phillips, Ben (Moriah) Phillips, Jack Phillips, Michael Phillips, Ella Merten, Reese Merten, Grady Merten, Ethan Merten, Nate Merten, Andres (Tatiana) Farfan, Ava (Dan) Shaw, Eli Merten, Noah Merten, 16 beautiful great-grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews.

Mom—AKA Mima, GG, Grandma, Aunt Marge, and a second mom to many—are just a few of the titles she carried. Material items held little value to Mom. She greeted you with sharp wit and a hint of sarcasm, along with board games, cards, numerous snacks, sugary sweets, drinks in the fridge, or a cold beer. There was always a hug and a treat for the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She welcomed everyone with openness, though it often came with her opinion—whether you wanted to hear it or not. You accepted it, knowing it would be followed by a smile, a hug, or an “I love you.” Some have called her a rock—not in the sense of being hard or inflexible, but as a force of stability, the calm in the storm. That was her essence, in a category all her own.

She was a woman who wanted to know you and was quick with a smile. She modeled devotion and faith to her family. Her heart and grace extended beyond family, and it was important to her that you worship where the Spirit calls you. Her impact is more than priceless memories; it is a legacy of acceptance for generations to come—love.

Visitation will be on Tuesday April 28, 2026, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm at Avance Funeral Home & Crematory, 4976 Winton Rd. Fairfield, OH 45014. Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday April 29, 2026, at 10:30am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 400 Nilles Rd. Fairfield, OH 45014 with Father David Sunberg officiating. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice of Cincinnati. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.avancefuneralhome.com