Obituary of Loretta Gotha

July 13, 1940 - September 4, 2014 Loretta Triplett was born in Lackey, Kentucky on July 13, 1940. She was one of three children born from the union of the late Melvin Triplett and Marie (Cooper) Triplett. At the age of 11, Loretta moved to Monroe County where she attended school in Petersburg graduating with the Class of 1958. Loretta was a hard worker and for thirty-three years she supported her family working in the Meat Department for Food Town. On March 17, 1995 she married James Gotha in Las Vegas, Nevada. The couple had an exceptional relationship. They enjoyed traveling throughout Northern Michigan; partaking in winery tours and visiting the casinos. As a snow bird, Loretta enjoyed walking the sandy beaches in sunny Florida and as an avid Tiger fan, she frequented spring training games in Lakeland, and never missed a game on television. More than anything, Loretta loved and cherished her family. She enjoyed the presence of family and guests gathering in her home; and she was the consummate cook and host always making sure there was enough to eat. Grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Loretta (Triplett) Gotha, age 74, of Monroe passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2014 surrounded by her family. In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by a brother: Melvin D. Triplett. To cherish her memory she leaves her husband of nineteen years: James Gotha of Monroe; two children: Steven (Dawn) Walters of Carleton and Patricia (Doug) Iott of Findlay, Ohio; three stepchildren: Jim (Kelly) Gotha of LaSalle, Mark (Shannon) Gotha of Ida and Christine (Rich) Kopas of Warren; one sister: Melva Dickson of Swanton, Ohio; five grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. Cremation has taken place. Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 8:00pm on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe 14567 South Dixie Highway (734) 241-7070. Friends may also gather from 10:00am until a Celebration of Her Life at 11:00am on Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at Trinity Lutheran Church 323 Scott Street in Monroe with Reverend Jeffrey Heimsoth, Administrative Pastor of the church officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for inurnment. Memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to Ebeid Hospice of Sylvania, Ohio or Trinity Lutheran Church. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.