August 11, 1971 - December 29, 2021
On Dec. 29, 2021 the world lost an incredible human being. Danell “Dani” Merck, 50, went to be with the Lord she loved so much after courageously fighting cancer for 16 years. Before she left, she let her husband and son, Steve and Joey, know, unequivocally, how much she loved them.
What a gift and inspiration she was for all as she fought her cancer. She became known as “Wonder Woman” by those who came in contact with her and deservedly so. She earned that nickname every day that she was on this earth. A huge void will be left in her wake, but all who knew her were privileged to see her fight cancer with dignity, poise, and even fun. Many remember her catch phrase “Whoo Hoo!” She left an indelible mark upon all she touched. One of her favorite plaques in her home said, “I Think I’ll Just Be Happy Today.” She lived her life that way.
She is survived by her husband Steve, son Joey, parents Tim and Nelda Mataczynski, parents-in- law Don and Pat Merck, brother Duane Mataczynski (Shannon), brothers-in-law David and Daniel (Gloria), sister-in-law Nora Hoffman (Rob), Aunt Ann Marie “D.D.” Mataczynski, Uncle Dale (Suzanne) Bensen, nephew Connor Mataczynski, and nieces Zoe, Jenna, Eliana, and Natalia Merck. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Louis and Judy Mataczynski and Sverre and Marzella Bensen.
SERVICES:
Inurnment for family only will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi on January 28, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.
A livestream of the service for all will be broadcast at 2:30 p.m. and can be accessed at http://www.viewlogies.net/cherokee/5cADohUta?pin=219246 (PIN No. 219246). If required, for technical support call (415) 763-8439.
Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or Autism Speaks.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Merck family.
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