Mary M. Merwin Dibos

Zillah Mary Merwin Dibos was an only child born to Zillah and George S. Merwin in Omaha, Nebraska, on February 25, 1925; she passed away on July 16, 2011. She spent her childhood in Omaha, New Jersey, and Kansas City, graduating from Southwest High School. Mary met her future husband, William, while a student of his at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, and they were married on June 12, 1945. She earned her BA in education and taught grade school with a passion for much of her life, the last 25 years at Boone Elementary in Center School District. Mary’s story is not complete without mentioning a special place in Minnesota named Blanche Lake. She spent time there almost every summer from the age of two. This is where she passed on the love of fishing and the outdoors to her family. Mary was one of the kindest, gentlest, most helpful, optimistic, and selfless people to ever walk the Earth. She enriched the lives of all who knew her with a purity of purpose that defied belief. Every day, in a profoundly fundamental way, she changed how someone viewed the world - not because she tried to, but because she existed. Mary and Bill had two children and four grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by her husband in 1999. She leaves her daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Michael Grimes, son, George Dibos, Heidi Dibos, and grandchildren Mathew, Eric, Kimberly, and Alan. Her family loved her more than words can adequately express. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society or Wayside Waifs because of her affection for four-footed family members. A memorial service is planned, but no date is set. Burial will be in Wadena, Minnesota. Condolences may be offered at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com. Arrangements under the direction of Mount Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.