Merle R. Riehl (nee Shannon), age 96, passed in the early morning hours on October 24, 2022. Born in East Cleveland, OH on May 30, 1926. Merle was a graduate of Shaw High School and was a resident of Willowick since 1955.
She was a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Married to Warren L. Riehl in 1948, when Cleveland was celebrating a World Series victory. Merle and Warren together raised a family of four children.
Merle is survived by her four children, Jacquelin Riehl (Donald Sotak), Carolyn Riehl (Peter Santogade), Jeff Riehl and Margaret Riehl (Steven Schroeder); six grandchildren, Kevin Meade, Regina Schroeder, Elena Santogade (Joshua Cohen), Brian Sotak, Megan Sotak, and Lydia Santogade; Merle also leaves behind her many cherished nephews and nieces, their children, their grandchildren, and several close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Newton Shannon and Eleanor Scott Salisbury Shannon and her husband, Warren (December 6, 2009). Merle looked forward to being reunited with her parents, two sisters, brother, nephews, and special nieces. Merle’s life was full because she was loved by many.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church 29850 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 27, 2022. Following the service, Merle’s inurnment will be held at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery 10175 Rawiga Road, Seville, OH at 12:45 p.m. Family and friends wishing to join a memorial luncheon at Mario Fazio’s, 34400 Chardon Rd., Willoughby Hills, may contact a family member to confirm their desired attendance.
Arrangements by Orlando-Donsante-Previte Funeral Home of Wickliffe (440) 943-2466.
To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.orlandodonsanteprevitefh.com.
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