Obituary of Frances D. Merkel

Frances D. Merkel (nee Audi), 88 died on Wednesday; March 27, 2013 in Brighton Gardens, West Orange. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass at St. Rose of Lima Church, 50 Short Hills Ave., Short Hills, on Monday, April 1st at 11:15 AM. Arrangements by The Jacob A. Holle Funeral Home, Maplewood. Born in New York, NY. Mrs. Merkel lived in Rumson for forty years before moving to West Orange three years ago. Frances was a kind and generous person who shared the handiwork of her many talents with family and friends. She never forgot to celebrate the special occasions of loved ones. She will be missed by family, friends, neighbors, the Rumson Seniors and the staff at Brighton Gardens in West Orange. The family is very grateful to the staff a Brighton Gardens for their excellent care and genuine affection of Frances. Frances was the beloved wife of Thomas V. Merkel; devoted mother of Jeanne Turner, Barbara Hylind and Daria McGillicuddy as well as her sons-in-law Simon, Ralph and Patrick; loving grandmother of Dennis, Owen, Emilee, Nicola, Sean, Robyn and great grandmother of Leopold. She was predeceased by her sister Pauline Torazzo and her grandson Timothy Hylind. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in her name to your favorite charity.