Barbara Hess Merrill

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Barbara Hess Merrill, age 91, born April 5, 1918 in Arco, Idaho to Sarah and Frank Hess passed away in Sun City on Sunday, October 18, 2009. She was the 11th of 12 children.

She was a California resident for 80 years. Barbara was married twice and worked for Van de Kamp’s bakery in the Pasadena area for 25 years. She retired with her second husband (Mel) in 1968 and finally settled in Hemet in 1985 and lived there until 2006. Mel passed away in 2007, and Barbara spent the last three years in Sun City Gardens.

Barbara was a wonderful caring mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She is survived by five children, Sharon Smith, John Butler, John Merrill, Patricia Howlett, and Kathryne Whitford. She has 22 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.

Barbara, a member the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, embraced her faith with devotion. She was the wonderful matriarch of this extended family and will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel at 225 Mildred St. in Perris, CA. Viewing is 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. and Memorial Services begin at 10:45 a.m. Interment will be at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to:
Odyssey Hospice
225 W. Hospitality Lane, Suite 102
San Bernardino, CA .92508