Mary Janice Merz

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 5, 1942, she was the daughter of William and Madeline (Berkery) Speck. Mary was a graduate of Dunbarton College in Washington, D.C., and went on to earn a Master‘s degree in Special Education at the University of Utah, and an additional Master’s degree in Christian Community Development at Regis University. She spent two years in Carbon County, Utah as a teacher with Extension Volunteers, and then worked as a special education teacher for many years in the District 6 school system in Greeley, Colorado. Mary had an unstoppable passion for children, always encouraging their independence, creativity, and self worth, as her students and her grandchildren can surely attest.

In her retirement, Mary enjoyed her passion for travel with her husband, Bob, visiting many exciting locations in South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Closer to home, she gave back to her community as a volunteer for United Way and the Guadalupe Shelter.

Mary is survived by her husband, Bob of 51 years, their daughter, Michelle Merz-Hutchinson of Denver, CO, their son, Mike Merz of Longmont, CO, and three grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Pattee Speck, of Monument, CO, and preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Carole, and brother, David.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church (2222 23rd Ave., Greeley, CO). All are welcome to attend a reception at Allnutt Funeral Home (6521 W. 20th St., Greeley, CO) directly following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Guadalupe Community Shelter, 1442 N. 11th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631