Isabelle Merrill, 81, passed away Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, at Meadow View Estates.

Isabelle was born Feb. 14, 1929, in Volinia Township to the late Wright and Ethel (Drake) Schoetzow. 

On March 2, 1946, she married Joseph (Shorty) Merrill, who preceded her in death on Dec. 10, 1998.

Survivors include: daughters, Lorene Lundy (Roger Noecker) and Kathy (Jim) Peterson, granddaughters, Jodie (Craig) Allen and Tracie (John) Closson; grandsons,  Jaime (Amanda) Peterson and Brent (Sarah) Peterson; five great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and spouse, Isabelle was preceded in death by two sisters, Margaret Wooden and Sharon Schoetzow, and five brothers, Elmer Schoetzow, Harry Schoetzow, Patrick Schoetzow, Bud Schoetzow and Rolland Schoetzow.

Isabelle enjoyed working with the retail public in downtown Dowagiac for many years and also enjoyed bowling, bingo and reading.

Isabelle’s family would like to thank the staff at Meadow View Estates for the loving care and compassion they gave her.

Friends may call from 12 to 1:30 prior to services at 1:30 on Wednesday, Oct. 27, at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, 61453 M-51 North, Niles.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.

Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home and Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, Niles.