Merri Lois Borkowski's Obituary
Big Rapids - Merri Lois (Meier) Borkowski, 72, of Big Rapids, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, February 7, 2016 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Merri was born May 7, 1943 to Martin and Lois Meier of St. Anne, IL. After graduating St. Anne High School, she earned her BS from the University of Illinois - Champaign. Merri's passion for teaching took her to many high schools in Illinois and Michigan including Big Rapids High School where she not only taught, but also served as the Gifted and Talented Coordinator for the district. Merri also taught Accounting at the collegiate level as a faculty member of Ferris State University. In addition to teaching, Merri took pride in selling real estate in the Big Rapids area. Merri was also an accomplished author, writing three novels in her favorite genre - mystery fiction. She enjoyed attending book signings and always made time for people interested in discussing literature or the writing process. Merri was a successful public speaker and would gladly give her time and talents to address groups on a wide variety of topics. Merri became a resident of Big Rapids, MI in 1978 but spent winters in Jerseyville, in order to be closer to her beloved grandchildren. While in Jerseyville, Merri served as a reading tutor for elementary students at Holy Ghost Elementary School. She is preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Lois Meier and her uncle, Gordon Meier. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Robert Borkowski of Big Rapids, Michigan; son, Casey Borkowski of Big Rapids, Michigan; and son, Brian (Jennifer) Borkowski; grandchildren, Casey and Noah Borkowski all of Jerseyville, IL; sister, Catherine Jenkins of Denton, Texas; as well as several nephews. Merri lived a life of love and dedication to her family, friends, and community. She touched the lives of everyone she came into contact with and made the world a better place for being in it. She will be dearly missed. A memorial gathering with Merri's family will take place from 5:00 to 6:00 pm on Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Merri's name may be made to the American Cancer Society with envelopes available at the funeral home.
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