Patricia Merchant

Patricia Louise Merchant, a beloved wife, mother, nana, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, leaving behind a family and many friends who will miss her dearly. Patty was born on January 17, 1944, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Rose C Fike and William L Fike. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Kay Hinnescheidt and Sharon Fike. Patty shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jon Fredrick Merchant. They were married on December 26, 1964, and built a life together centered around family, faith, hard work, and the simple joys of everyday life. 

Together, Jon and Patty raised two daughters, Kimberly Lou Chausow and Pamela Sue Kars. Her greatest joy was her family, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. She was a proud Nana to Bryan and Katelyn Kars, Quynn and Clarice Kars, Stephanie and Mitchell Bascom, Casey Chausow (Ally), Riley Chausow (Emily), and Jaymee Kars (Zach), as well as her 5.5 great-grandchildren. Patty graduated from Ann Arbor Public Schools and Michigan State University. She began her career as a math teacher before joining her husband in the family business, Jon Merchant Builder, where they worked side by side for many years. 

Patty was well-loved and found happiness in the things that mattered most. She loved her family and friends deeply and never needed much to make her happy. She loved being outdoors- walking, kayaking, working among her flowers, or simply sitting outside and enjoying the fresh air. She loved to read, bake cookies, and make beautiful handmade cards for the people she cared about. Those cards were one of the many ways Patty quietly showed others that she was thinking of them and that they mattered to her. 

Patty also cherished a strong and lasting faith. Throughout the years, she served her church in many different ways and found great comfort in her relationship with God. Her faith was an important part of who she was and the way she lived her life. 

Her family is grateful for the many years they were blessed to have Patty and for the love and memories she leaves behind. While her absence will be deeply felt, they find comfort knowing that she is now free from pain and home in Heaven. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support World Vision (worldvision.org) or pancreatic cancer research through the Sky Foundation, Inc. (skyfoundationinc.org). A private memorial with close family will take place at Patty’s home, per her wishes at a later date. 

Services provided by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.