Barbara Merriman, born on May 1, 1936, to Theresa and George Bauman, passed away on October 28, 2024, at Harrison Bay Senior Living.

Barb lived a full life of service to her family, community, and church. A breast cancer survivor, she took part in Relay for Life, in full costume, rallying her friends for the cause. Along with her friends she spread cheer visiting a local nursing home, singing old-time favorites for elderly residents. She wrote skits and songs for singing telegrams to be performed by her fun-loving friends and sister, to celebrate others. She was nothing short of zany at times, always up for adventure with friends of all ages.

Her spiritual home was St. Peter’s Catholic Church, where she was not only a dedicated choir member and volunteer, but also ran the church office for nearly thirty years, retiring at age 77.

Barb’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through personal losses, including the devastating loss of her husband, Dick, in 1983. Despite such hardships, she stayed positive and lived on. Barb’s home reflected her spirit, always festively decorated for every holiday, making each season special for her family and friends. Barb’s legacy of love, laughter, and service will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

Barb is survived by her five children, Richard (Carol) Merriman, Patricia Montgomery, Michael Merriman, Stephen (Karn) Merriman, and Ann Merriman (Christopher Olson). She was grandmother to Justin (Claire), Matthew (Alex), Reid (Jackie), Meghan (Dan), Ross, Kirby (Keith), Eric (Lara), and Austin, six great-grandchildren with a seventh due in March, sister Edie Moran, brother-in-law Jim Ronan, sister-in-law Karen Otto, brother-in-law Jim Otto, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Merriman; in-laws Van and Clara Merriman, daughter-in-law, Brenda Merriman; parents, Theresa and George Bauman, and seven siblings.

Special thanks go to Mike Merriman for caring for Mom for 12 years.  His dedication kept her at home as long as possible.  Thanks to Hospice Nurse Jody for getting to know and love her, months before her final decline. Thanks to the entire hospice team and Harrison Bay care staff for giving her their best end-of-life care.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Friday, December 6, 2024, at the St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Parish, St. Peter campus. A gathering will be held prior from 9-11 AM, with an 8:45 AM rosary service, all at the church. Inurnment in Calvary Cemetery, Delano, Minnesota.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Barb’s memory to the American Cancer Society, St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic School, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, or Maritime Heritage Minnesota.

The Mass will be live-streamed on the Iten Funeral Home Youtube page, through the link provided below:

https://youtube.com/live/ZRAHvjHSrCg