She peacefully surrounded by the love of her family. She was a loving mother and wife, devoted grandmother, and kind friend whose warmth touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.
For most of her career, she worked as a long-term care nurse, where she cared for others with endless compassion, patience, and dignity. Nursing was more than a profession to her – it was a reflection of her generous heart and caring spirit. She was predeceased by her husband, Gord. She leaves behind her two children, Aaron (Kristina) and Janis (Steve), who will forever cherish her guidance, strength, and unconditional love. Her greatest joy was being “Gramma” to her four treasured grandchildren – Skye, Macy, Ella, and Evan. She adored each of them deeply and took immense pride in their lives, filling their hearts with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. She is survived by her siblings; Donna Smalls, Mike (Rose) Levan, Janis Hartley, and Jim (Liz) Levan and many nieces and nephews.
Merlin Zimmer was predeceased by her sister Marna Smith, and her parents, Charlie and Allie Levan of Point Edward. She will be remembered for her gentle nature, caring soul, quiet strength, and the kindness she showed to everyone around her. Her love lives on in the family she cherished so deeply and in the countless lives she touched throughout her life.
She will be profoundly missed and forever loved. The family wishes to express their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to her dear friend Bonnie Drury, and to the staff at Fairwinds Lodge, Bluewater Health, and St Joseph’s Hospice, for their exceptional care and support.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph’s Hospice of Sarnia or the Sarnia Humane Society (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
Visitation
Smith Funeral Home – London Line Chapel
1576 London Line
Sarnia, Ontario
N7T 7H2
June 5th, 2026 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
