Mary Louise Merrill

Mary Lou Parmelee-Merrill passed away quietly in her sleep—having lived an “anything but quiet” life. Born to Jennie and George Ward, she was personable and out-going—even in a crowd of strangers. A model life-long learner, she was a seamstress, sorority officer, newspaper columnist, entrepreneur, accomplished artist, golfer, private pilot, teacher, Xango distributor, and musician (playing violin for a Toledo Symphony “Pro-Am” concert in her 80s). Ever ready for adventure, from remote Canada fishing to world traveling as a widow in her 60’s. These wonderful assets revealed God’s presence, despite knowing life’s sorrows, from her father’s sudden death when she was 19 to beating cancer at age 95.

After graduating Scott High School and Toledo University, she began a professional Girl Scouting career in 1948 with hopes to work in their Hawaii offices. Instead she met and married Jerry Parmelee in 1951, delaying Hawaii almost 4 decades. Mary Lou and Jerry became owners of the Par 4 Cafe in Toledo’s Old West End, creating a popular seafood & live lobster restaurant and raised 2 sons, Chip and Robb, both following the business. Sadly, in 1970, Jerry was killed in a robbery at the restaurant. Mary Lou, Chip and Robb were to learn that God alone redeems life’s sorrows by the power of His continual, indwelling presence.

She later married Robert Merrill and they became Florida snowbirds, summering at Sand Lake, MI. In Florida, she began her educator career. In 1988 Robert passed away and she finally moved to Hawaii—at age 62, becoming a certified ESL Master Tutor, befriending many Internationals. In 2004 her restless spirit returned to Toledo for full time grandmothering and renewing old friendships. She also recommitted her life to Jesus, receiving adult baptism and becoming dedicated to church and Bible study.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by husbands, Jerry Parmelee and Bob Merrill, and brother Bob Ward. Surviving are sons Chip and Robb (Patty) Parmelee, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who will all miss her dearly.

Memorial service Jan. 19th, 1 p.m. at Christian Fellowship Church, 6711 Pilliod Rd., Holland. Contributions can be to Christian Fellowship to benefit Toledo Gospel Rescue Mission.