Merrilou Newman (nee Detling), age 75, of Hambden Township, died at her home Dec. 9, 2022.
Born April 16, 1947, in Willoughby, to Miles and Marilyn (nee Taylor) Detling, Merrilou grew up in Willoughby, before moving to Hambden.
Merrilou graduated from South High School in Willoughby in 1965, went to Kent State University and graduated the year the four students were killed in 1970. Her graduation was in absentia.
She got her first and only job with the Willoughby Eastlake Schools and proudly served 39 years as a K-3 teacher. She loved her job and worked tirelessly for it. She ran the jump rope club at the school, which she really enjoyed.
She loved to travel, having been to all 50 states. Some great, some not so great. Early travel was by tent, later by motel.
Merrilou traveled worldwide to Galapagos, Costa Rica, Mexico, Canada, France, Belgium, England, Scotland, Ireland and Ecuador.
She was in good spirits and was always nice to everyone and they knew it.
She was a loving wife and mother, and she will be greatly missed.
Merrilou is survived by her husband of 51 years, and they together raised two adopted children. Jane died of cancer 15 years ago while Nicole lives in Willoughby. Nicole’s son, Dre (10), is being raised by Paul and Merrilou.
She is also survived by her mother, Marilyn, at 99 years old; and her brother, Tim, of Mentor.
She was also preceded in death by her father; and one sister, Pamela.
A Memorial Service will be held at Chardon United Methodist Church on Jan. 7, 2023, at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends immediately following in Hayden Hall.
Arrangements handled by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.
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