Merry Bingaman

Merry D. Bingaman, 71, of Elk Rapids, passed away on December 24, 2013 at Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility. Merry was born on December 16, 1942, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Einar and Violet (Swanson) Johansen. Merry attended Luther College in Decorah, IA, then graduated from Nothern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL, and received a degree of Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Summa Cum Laude from Metropolitan State College of Denver. Merry was a primary teacher and was also employed by Charles Schwab. Merry was a resident of Denver, CO, for many years prior to moving to Elk Rapids 7 years ago. She loved Denver and was an avid Denver sports fan. She enjoyed gardening, reading, knitting, crafting, bike riding and had a special love for animals. She is survived by a sister Elaine (David) Johnson of Eastport, a sister-in-law Jean Johansen of Lyons, Il, a nephew Kurt (Michele) Johnson of California, 5 nieces, Dawn (Joe) Dvorak of Watertown, N.Y., Debbie (Tony) Capone of Woodridge, IL, Kelly (Kurt) Honer of Angola, IN, Kris Ann (Kirk) Kraeuter of Jackson, MI, Kathy (Kevin) Robinson of Fishers, IN, 17 great nieces and great nephews, Beth, Anthony, Lauren, Olivia, Matthew, Robby, Nick, Jake, Jon, Luke, Josh, Rachel, Molly, Jack, Parker, Grace and Brooks. Also surviving are her lifelong friends Lynne and George as well as her special, caring friends, Char, Jan, Bonnie, Carol, Judy and Phyllis. She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, Carroll and Donald Johansen. Memorial services will take place on Saturday, January 4 at 11:00 a.m. at First Congregational Church, Central Lake. Char Lundy and Pastor Don Sinclair will officiate. A luncheon will follow at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the First Congregational Church in Central Lake. Arrangements are being handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign our online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.