Our family regretfully announces the passing of Merle E. Nessle, on October 23rd, 2012.  She had just celebrated her 90th birthday, on October 13th,  with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She joyfully went on to heaven, to be with her husband, George, son Lawrence, and many close friends and family.

Merle was the daughter of Erin (Jones) Couch, and granddaughter of Arthur Jones.  She is survived by her loving younger sister, Marjorie, who resides in Plano Texas.  Also surviving are her children Kathleen, Elizabeth, Michael, Jonathan, Mary and Paul.  Merle lived in Tennessee for several years, then moved to Pennsylvania from 1960 to 1982.  She enjoyed a wonderful retirement, with her husband George, in St. Pete Beach, Florida, from 1982 to 1996.  After her husband’s passing in 1996, Merle remained in St. Pete Beach until her move back to Pennsylvania, to be closer to family, in 1999.  Her children were blessed to have her in their lives again, for almost 13 years!  During those years, she was able watch her grandchildren grow, and even got to see two great grandchildren!

Merle was so proud of her family history, and loved to follow the “Jones Valley” news, even though she was not able to attend the family reunions for many years.  When the “Cookshack Cookbook” came out, she was excited to share this keepsake with her children, and bought each of us a cookbook.  With our large family, that was quite an investment!  Merle was loyal to the Jones Valley reunion effort, and sent regular donations in support of it.

Kathleen still receives the Newsletter, and shares it with the family.

Respectfully,

Elizabeth Beam (daughter of Merle)