Professor Patricia Elaine Merck, JD
February 07, 2019
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Service Details
Patricia Elaine Merck, 68, passed away February 7, 2019. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, February 23, 2019 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA.
Patricia was born February 19, 1950 near Demorest, Georgia to Ora (Mote) and Irce Williams. Her studies were important to her and she ultimately graduated from the University of Denver in Colorado with her JD degree. Patricia taught for 10+ years and most recently at Purdue Global in Urbandale. She was dedicated to her career, a hard-worker, and a strong independent woman. Patricia loved teaching and helping others attain their dreams.
She was a wonderful mother to her four children. Patricia was involved in their activities, took pride in their accomplishments, and was always there for them - always. In the end, it was Patricia’s devotion to her children that brought them to her in her hour of need.
In her free time Patricia enjoyed gardening, and using her home grown vegetables in her cooking, hosting family and friends in her home, and spending time at the ocean or in the mountains.
She will be dearly missed by her children, James, Marissa, Savanna and Amanda Merck; her 4-legged child, Sheila; sisters, Betty Williams and Pamela Mitchell; and a host of other loving relatives and many special friends. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
David Armoogam
02/20/2019
I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. Trish was one of the few that made a positive impact on my life when I first began working with her at Hamilton College now Purdue Global Education. She was always positive and optimistic even in the most trying of circumstance and had a tremendous impact on the life of here students. She was very proud of her kids and always spoke very highly of them. I was truly blessed and honored to have known her. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Andrew Gress
02/19/2019
I worked with Trish for 12 years. What a honor. She was much more than a co-worker; Trish was a friend and many, many times gave both collegial and mom-like advice. As a DSM transplant, Trish was an important piece and part of my journey here. I will forever remember her greatness.
All of my familys love to Trishs daughters and family. What a special person.
Andrew Gress
Patsy Taylor
02/14/2019
I grew up with Trish, Pam and Betty
when they lived in Cornelia and
later in Demorest, Georgia. What fond memories I have of our fun times! Later in life I lost touch with them when they moved West. Last year we were reunited when their Mom passed away. Although our visit was short it was such a blessing to see them again! So very sad to hear this news. My prayers to Betty and Pam and Trish's daughters and
family. Patsy Taylor
Marilyn Jerome
02/14/2019
I was sad to know that Trish had passed away. I had the privilege of working with her at Kaplan (Purdue Global) for many years and shared office space with her for a year; we had many great conversations both about our work and our families. It was always a joy to see her face light up when she would talk about her children; she was a mom first and foremost. It was obvious that motherhood was her favorite "job" and she beamed with pride when sharing news about her children. I will miss our conversations; she always gave great insight as a professional and as a mom. Her students were so fortunate to gain from her wisdom and guidance. Prayers go out to the family and friends who will miss your presence. Thank you for the memories.
Cheyenne Vargas
02/13/2019
Oh Trish, how I loved her so. She was the best teacher I could have ever had at Kaplan (Purdue). She pushed me to do my best and she was integral in why I am in the career field Im in. She became a great friend to my husband and myself. She also loved seeing pictures of our kids.
The world has lost an amazing person! Rest well, Trish.
Debra Williams Smith
02/12/2019
Patricia was one of my favorite cousins when growing up. I enjoyed spending the night with Betty, Pam and Patricia. Enjoyed going to the river with them. I'm sure her Dad and Mother were glad to see her when she arrived in heaven on the 7th. Will be praying for her children. and sisters, Betty and Pam. God bless you all.
Jane McElligott
02/12/2019
I'm so sorry for the loss of your mom, family member, and friend. Trish was a wonderful colleague to all of us at Purdue Global and she will be dearly missed. Please know that she was a dedicated, inspiring teacher who had a powerful impact on so many lives. My warm regards to you in this difficult time.
Steve Peasley
02/11/2019
I was saddened to hear of Trish's passing. I had the distinct pleasure of working with her @ Kaplan University (now Purdue Global). I found Trish to be the consummate professional, both inside and outside the classroom. I know that her students thought very highly of her, as did the rest of the professors and staff. It was an honor to know her !
Vickie Wetzel
02/10/2019
So very sorry to hear this sad news! My thoughts and prayers are with you Amanda and family.
Michelle Wonderlich
02/09/2019
My heart goes out to everyone grieving the loss of Trish. I was blessed to work with her at Kaplan University. She was one of the very first to welcome me on my first day. Trish had the biggest heart & wanted to encourage everyone no matter what they were going through. She was brilliant & will be greatly missed by everyone. I am disappointed I will not be able to attend her visitation. Trish was passionate about everything she did & loved her family immensely.
Timothy Carlin
02/09/2019
I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Trish while at Purdue Global University. She was always a delight to work with, and will deeply be missed. I hope and pray you all will be comforted during this time of grieving and heartache.
Preston Mighdoll
02/09/2019
I worked with Trish at Purdue Global University. She was always so helpful, knowledgeable and good humored. I will miss her and extend my sympathies to her family,
Betty Gragg
02/09/2019
I have alot of wonderful childhood memories when I think of my cousin Patricia ..my favorite was when me and her ate almost a whole loaf of toasted bread with grape jelly on it...and also her piano playing...her dad being a Holiness preacher always wanted her to play religious music but when he wasn't looking sometimes she would jammed out on that piano...loved you Patricia..RIP cousin
Cheryl Ostrander
02/09/2019
I cannot begin to express how sorry I was to hear of the loss of your mother. As I toured the Kaplan campus on my first day there I was thrilled to see Trish as I passed her office! She had been a colleague of mine at Iowa Health System and I was overjoyed to see a familiar face. Our many conversations always centered around our children. She was always very proud of you girls and loved you deeply. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sait Tarhan
02/09/2019
Trish was one of our "inner circle." I worked with her at Purdue Global University, She was always so very helpful, professional and a pleasure to work with. Supportive and engaged in her work. I will miss her friendly "hi" in faculty meetings. She was a wonderful colleague.