The passing of Nancy Julia Merrill occurred on Friday, May 22, 2020 at Pine Grove Nursing Home, Fredericton, NB with family members at her bedside. Born in Campbellton NB on October 23, 1929, Nancy was the daughter of Elsa & Julian Merrill and over her lifetime, she lived in New Hampshire, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Maine. The longest being in and near Machias, Maine where her parents originated. She volunteered with the Fredericton HeadStart program and both Hospitals. Later while living in the USA, she worked as a librarian and personal care worker. Nancy loved to travel, when she could, especially in the Airstream trailer.
Nancy taught her brood of 5 children, among other things, the morality of right & wrong, the acceptance of all people being equal, about the birds and the bees and to always spread the butter and jam right out to the edges of the bread!
She is survived by her children: Julie Bjerkelund of Mactaquac NB, T Jim Bjerkelund (Cathy) of Hantsport NS, Pete Bjerkelund (Tone Meeg) of Fredericton NB & Sue Bjerkelund Thunder Bay ON; grandchildren Dana (Shelby), Jamie (Sarah) and Lindsey (Patrick); Michael; Kai; Carly and Daniel. Great-grandchildren: Henry, David, Anna and Samuel; Finnley and his little brother/sister expected in June! Sisters-in-law Mandy Bjerkelund, Ottawa ON and Viki Bjerkelund-Usiskin, Edmonton AB, along with 6 nieces & 1 nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; son Dave Bjerkelund; her partner Homere Dansereau; brother Peter Merrill; and the father of her children, Tom Bjerkelund.
At Nancy's request there will be no visitation or funeral service; however, a graveside service will be held at the Merrill family plot in Machias Maine, at a later date.
The family would like to thank all the wonderful staff at Pine Grove Nursing Home for the thoughtful care and compassion they gave Nancy.
For those who wish, donations in Nancy's memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or the Pine Grove Nursing Home Tranquility Garden or to a charity of the donor's choice. Personal condolences may be offered through the family or www.bishopsfuneralhome.com
