Verna Marie Merkel, 66, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, after a short and courageous battle with cancer. She had called Prairie Pointe Assisted Living Center her home prior to moving to the Baptist Health & Rehab for a short time before her passing. She was surrounded by her loving family and cared for with great kindness and compassion.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, December 11, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 502 N 4th St, Bismarck.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 PM, Wednesday, December 19, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck, with visitation continuing one hour prior to services at the church.

Born on October 4, 1959, to Alvin and Shirley (Thompson) Merkel, Verna was raised in Braddock and Bismarck, North Dakota. She graduated from Bismarck High School. From an early age, she touched the lives of everyone she met with her joyful spirit, warm hugs, and unwavering love. She loved Mickey Mouse and cheered faithfully for the Minnesota Vikings and the NDSU Bison.

Music and dancing were among Verna’s greatest joys. She lit up whenever she heard her favorite song and never missed a chance to dance.

Verna proudly worked for McDonald’s for 25 years, where she made many friends and celebrated her retirement. She also participated in the Special Olympics for many years where she got to do other activities she loved.

She is survived by her sisters, Connie Trauger and Brenda (Greg) Holzworth; her brothers, Keith (Jennifer) Merkel and Kevin (Karla) Merkel; and her brother-in-law, Lee Schneider. She leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews: Kristi Trauger, Nathan (Terri) Trauger, Matthew (Pam) Holzworth, Shawn Holzworth, Megan (Jerry) Spitzer, Timothy Merkel, Myranda (Brandon) Page, Macy (Zach) Eddy, and Marissa Merkel—along with great nieces and nephews who each held a special place in her heart.

Verna was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Ricky Merkel; her sister, Patty Schneider; her brother-in-law, Alan (Alfie) Trauger; and her niece-in-law, Lindsay Trauger.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff of Prairie Pointe Assisted Living, Baptist Health & Rehab, and CHI Hospice for the exceptional care and comfort they provided.

Verna will be remembered for her unconditional love, her gentle soul, and her gift for bringing joy to all who knew her. Her hugs, her laughter, and her light will live on forever in the hearts of her family and friends.