Lois J. Merritt

Lois J. Merritt, a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 24, 1932, in South Bend, Indiana, she was the daughter of Herbert and Helen (Crowell) Lechlitner. Her life was a testament to love, faith, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Lois graduated from Mishawaka High School in 1950 and soon after, on January 13, 1951, she married the love of her life, William Merritt. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising three daughters over their 67 years of marriage. Lois was preceded in death by her parents Herbert and Helen Lechlitner, her husband William Merritt, her siblings William Lechlitner and Evelyn Clausen, her daughter Barbara Bishop, and her son-in-law Terry Mason. She is survived by her devoted children, Karen Mason, Donna Beam and her husband Leo, and Allen Bishop husband of the late Barbara Bishop. Her legacy of love continues through her grandchildren, Troy Mason (Taryn), Randy Mason (Mena), Jill Campbell (Rob), Shelley Buck (Steve), Melinda Low (James), Chris Beam (Stephanie), Rebecca Robertson, Lori Scott (Nathan), and Jessica Heistan (Jon), as well as 21 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Lois worked at Uniroyal/Ball Band, where she dedicated years in the office before retiring. Her professional life was marked by her strong work ethic and her ability to form lasting friendships with colleagues. A woman of profound faith, Lois was an active member of the Milburn Blvd. Church of Christ, later the Deer Run Church of Christ, and participated in the BSF Bible study group. Her spirituality and kindness touched everyone she met, and she was known for her loving, caring, and patient nature. Lois was passionate about sharing her love for the Lord with those around her, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. Lois found joy in the simple pleasures of life, cherishing every moment spent with her family. Whether it was hosting sleepovers, tea parties, or zoo days with her grandchildren, she relished in creating lasting memories. Lois ensured a strong family bond by hosting many holiday parties as well as lunches every Sunday followed by competitive games of Nertz. Lois was also an avid musician, finding solace in playing the piano, and she delighted in friendly games of Euchre and Pinochle. Her talents extended to the garden and the kitchen, where she expressed her creativity through cake decorating and delicious meals in her kitchen, known to her family as "Grandma's Fancy Fancy Restaurant". Lois's enthusiasm for the MHS marching band was well-known, and she never missed an opportunity to attend her grandchildren's sporting events and performances. In honoring Lois's memory, her family suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to giving back. Lois will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was a beautiful testament to love, faith, and family, and her legacy will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.