Nona M. Merklein

PORTAGE – Nona M. Merklein, age 94, of Portage, passed away on Friday, October 20, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Nona was born on October 21, 1928, in Portage, the daughter of Charles and Clida (Gillson) Carney. She was married to Howard Merklein on December 6, 1947.  He preceded her in death on June 2, 2004. Nona was a life-long member of Portage United Methodist Church.  She was a member of the Elkettes and loved to bowl.  Nona had worked at the Sally Jane Bakery in Portage. She spent many happy times with her husband and family in their cabin in the Northwoods, and she loved watching the Bucks and Packers.  However, she was primarily a homemaker.

She is survived by her daughter, Catherine Ann (Terry) Wilson;  her son, Steven Richard Merklein; grandchildren, Clark (Marsha) Wilson, Kathryn (Jesse) Paulson, Dara (Justin) Wilson, and Andrew (Becca) Merklein;  ten great-grandchildren, Grant, Lily, Aidan, Isaac, Adrianna, Molly, Luke, Cal, William and Bennett; other relatives and many friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Howard, three sisters, four brothers and her daughter-in-law, Jeni.  

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage.  Inurnment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Portage United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.