Mary Janice Ivy

Mary Janice (Jan) Ivy was born July 12, 1939 to Gladys and Vance McKim in Belle Fourche South Dakota. Jan left this earth on Wednesday July 19, 2017 at the age of 78. Jan was a 40-year survivor of breast cancer as well as a survivor of esophageal cancer; ironically she succumbed to heart disease. She was a tough fighter, with a smile, to the very end. Jan moved with her family to Snelling California at the age of four, then on to Merced in 1952. Jan met her husband Ed Ivy in high school and they married in 1961 and began their life long journey together.

Jan is survived by her husband of 56 years Ed Ivy, daughter Dawn (Tim) Arnsberg, son Rodney (Tina) Ivy, grandsons Ryan Arnsberg, Stefan Arnsberg, Tyler Arnsberg, Cameron Ivy and Cade Ivy. Jan is also survived by siblings, Joanne (Al) Bardini, Carol (Gene) Johnson, Patrick (Bonnie) McKim and Dennis (Sally) McKim and many, many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews. She is also survived by brother-in-law Jerry (Donna) Ivy, sister-in-law Gail Zapata. She was preceded in death by her sister–in-law Sharon Larsen and her sister-in-law Joanne Goza.

Jan was an avid baseball fan. Both Ed and Jan were dedicated parents and grandparents who rarely missed a ball game that included any of their children or grandchildren. In addition to supporting them in their athletic accomplishments, she was also known by the boys as the “Best Nana Ever”. She was always there to help. Besides being a devoted homemaker, she also assisted her husband in their plumbing business (CIA Plumbing). She later worked as the office manager/volunteer coordinator for Hinds Hospice of Merced for many years. After retirement, Jan and Ed were able to travel to many states. They enjoyed many travel adventures but mostly enjoyed the mountains and the ocean. Those who knew Jan were all able to enjoy her kindness, warmth and laughter. She demonstrated a positive strength and infectious joy for living until her last moment.

A memorial service will be held Saturday July 29th at 3:00pm at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home at 1490 B Street, Merced California, followed by a Celebration of Life at Rod and Tina Ivy’s home at 2837 Whitegate, Merced, CA.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hinds Hospice of Merced or Mercy Medical Center, Merced CA.

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MARY JANICE IVY

JUL 12, 1939 - JUL 19, 2017

Arrangements under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, Merced, CA.