Obituary of Myrtle Irene VanWashenova

Myrtle Irene Dorris was born on July 29, 1947 in Trenton.  She was the daughter of the late Ardist E. Dorris and the late Dillie (Holland) Dorris.   She graduated in 1965 from Trenton High School and then attended the Detroit Business Institute for an additional two years obtaining her certification.  

Myrtle married the love of her life, Edward Van Washenova in 1966.  From this union would come the birth of three daughters.   The couple would share more than thirty-six years of marriage until Edwards death in 2002.   Myrtle was extremely thoughtful and generous.   She always seemed to put the needs of her family ahead of her own.   For thirty-two years she balanced the needs of her family with employment at the Monroe County Health Department where she served as the Office Manager.   Myrtle retired in 2016. 

A woman of strong, Christian convictions she was active at CrossPointe Church.   She loved to lend her time and talents to church activities.   Myrtle could often be counted on to share her faith and Godly wisdom with anyone willing to listen.   Myrtle enjoyed spoiling her family and especially her grandchildren.

She loved to listen to Elvis Presley and collect rocks.  

Myrtle Irene Van Washenova, age 71, of Monroe passed away at 4:04am on Sunday, October 14, 2018 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio.  

To cherish her memory, she leaves three daughters:  Catherine (Wesley) Foor of Tuscon, Arizona, Caroline Van Washenova (Steven Terry) of Monroe, and Cheryl (Phil) Spears of Flat Rock; six brothers:  Jim (Marsha) of Arizona, Bill (Sharon) of Florida, Paul of Florida, Charlie (Jewel) of Florida, David (Terrie) of East Pointe and Leonard of East Pointe; three sisters:  Sarah Shelton of Tennessee, Gladys McGill of Florida, Ruby Walker of Florida; four grandchildren:  Daniel, Alex, Jaelyn and Brooke; and her feline companions Norbit and Oreo.

Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5815.   A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 11:00am on Thursday, October 18, 2018 also at Merkle’s with Pastor Jay Anderson of CrossPointe Church and Pastor Chris Savoie co-officiating.   Procession will follow to St. Charles Cemetery in Newport for burial.

Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Northwest Ohio or Family and Community Services Foster Care, Adoption and Counseling Service.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.