Genarose C. "Jenny" Merkel

Genarose Charlotte “Jenny” Merkel, age 88, of Batesville, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, October 5, 2025, surrounded by the family she cherished. Jenny’s life was rooted in love – love for her family, her faith, and the gardens she tended. Born on November 22, 1936, in Batesville to Frank and Marian (Wuestefeld) Huenefeld, Jenny grew up learning the value of nurturing both people and plants. Her garden was more than a patch of earth; it was a living testament to her patience, dedication, and care. Jenny’s green thumb brought beauty and nourishment to everyone around her. On May 6, 1961, Jenny married Leo Merkel at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Morris, Indiana. Their marriage was a partnership built on devotion and laughter, lasting 64 wonderful years. Together, they raised five children and built a home where the kitchen was always filled with the aroma of homecooked meals and freshly baked treats. Jenny’s legendary cookies and cinnamon rolls were a staple at family gatherings, and her garden’s bounty found its way into every meal. Jenny’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her family. She volunteered in the local community and once her children were in school, cared for others by cleaning the Hill-Rom office building in Batesville. Her attention to detail and kindness left a lasting impression – many would say no one took care of them quite like Jenny. Faith was the cornerstone of Jenny’s life. As a lifelong member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, she prayed the rosary daily and lovingly passed this tradition to her children and grandchildren. Sunday mornings often found the family gathered for “family rosary,” a ritual that brought comfort and unity across generations. Jenny adored her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was always ready to say “yes” to any request – whether playing a game, reading a book, making a puzzle, or sharing her delicious baked goods. She enjoyed playing cards and was known as the unbeatable card shark, her laughter echoing through every match. Jenny is survived by her husband Leo of Batesville; daughters Carol (Michael) Prickel of Batesville, Janet (Chris) Dawes of Indianapolis, and Mari Jo (Ryan) Moody of Batesville; sons Randy (Karen) Merkel and Rick (Kimberly) Merkel, all of Batesville; sisters Helen Strasser of Falmouth, Kentucky, and Loretta Wolf of Mason, Ohio; 12 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, Jenny was preceded in death by her sisters Bernadine Brinkman and Marie Herbert. Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 8th, from 4–7 p.m. at Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Thursday, October 9th, at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Morris, officiated by Fr. Shaun Whittington, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Margaret Mary Health Foundation Hospice or St. Anthony’s Cemetery Fund.

Genarose C. "Jenny" Merkel

November 22, 1936 - October 5, 2025