Jamie Bell Merz

Jamie Bell Merz, 73, passed away peacefully at Hearthstone Memory Care Center at Fairhaven Senior Services in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

Jamie was born and raised in the Horicon/Mayville area of Wisconsin. She later attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in library sciences. She went on to serve as a Library Assistant at the UW-Whitewater Harold Anderson Library, a role that reflected her love of books.

Jamie had a lifelong connection to animals. Throughout the years, she lovingly cared for many cats, dogs, birds, and horses. Her compassion for animals was a defining part of who she was, and the animals she nurtured brought her great joy and companionship.

Jamie also loved to travel. She and her husband, Karl, explored many parts of the United States and traveled to numerous countries in Europe, creating memories and sharing adventures along the way. Germany and France held a special place in Jamie’s heart, as did the beautiful coastal areas of Maine. She treasured experiencing new places, cultures, landscapes, and cuisines.

Jamie will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her compassion for animals, and her quiet contentment in the Merz countryside home in the rolling hills of Wisconsin. She found happiness in books and music and in caring for animals.

Jamie was preceded in death by her husband, Karl; her sister, Patrice; and her parents, George and Eloise Bell. She is survived by Barbara Merz and Sarah Merz DeVoll, Karl’s daughters from a previous marriage, and by her step-nephews Ryan Vossekuil and Kurt Vossekuil, stepchildren of her late sister, Patrice.

Private family remembrance will happen at a later date.

Nitardy Funeral Home has been entrusted with Jamie's care.