Merla Virginia Keetch

Merla Virginia Keetch, 93, of Haslett, Michigan, left this earth to live with Jesus in Heaven on August 2, 2025. Merla was born August 23, 1931, to the late Ralph and Florence (Harvey) Keetch on a farm near Hillman Michigan. Merla graduated from Hillman High School in June 1949, and married Howard Funk on Sept 1, 1951.

Merla received her teaching certificate from Montmorency County Normal in June 1950 and completed an Elementary Education degree in 1968 from Michigan State University. Merla was a lifelong learner. Her passion for teaching and education shinned during her 46-year teaching career that spanned from 1950-1996. The impact on her students was felt deeply whether teaching in Michigan or Florida, where she was honored with the award for teacher of the year, directed an after-school tutorial program and was grade chair. Being a teacher was one of the most fulfilling career choices Merla could have chosen and spoke often about how important and meaningful it was to her. Merla’s dedication and love for teaching left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate to know her. After retirement, Merla kept busy by continuing to work well into her 80’s by working with the Nevada Assembly, Central Free Methodist Church, and Covington Woods.

There were three great loves of her life. Her love for Jesus which began at the age of 10, her love for her family, her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her love for teaching.

Merla is survived by her children, Ralph and Carla (Kosal) Funk of Harbor Beach, Michigan, Robin and Jim Hastings of Haslett, Michigan, Ruth and Jack Barber of DeWitt, Michigan, 8 grandchildren, Kendra (Jorge) Funk, Jeremy Funk, Courtney (James) Herron, Nathan Funk, Ashlee (Ryan) DeDuijtsche, Matthew (Madyson) Peterson, Jack Jr (Laura) Barber, Brandi (Trevor) Strahan; 14 great grandchildren, Natasha, Gavin, Ava, Lilly, Avery, William, Henry, Alice, Braelynn, Jaydin, Riley, Max, Bently, Ryder; Sister-in-law Diane Keetch of Zephyrhills, Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

Merla is preceded in death by her son Roderick Funk of North Carolina; her parents and several brothers and sisters including their spouses and members of their families.

No funeral services are planned. The family would like to give special thanks to nurses Katie and Mandy, nurses aid Rachel and Chaplin Chris for their kindness shown in caring for Merla during her failing health.