Bonnie Jean Merkens

Bonnie Jean Merkens, age 79, of Ada, Minnesota, passed away on March 9, 2026, at Benedictine Care Community of Ada.

Born on November 14, 1946, in Ada, Bonnie was the daughter of Charles and Bernice (Hirchert) Fjeld. She grew up in the Ada area, where she attended school surrounded by family. As a young woman she worked at the local nursing home, a role that reflected her caring nature. There she met Marvin Merkens, and they were married on December 10, 1966, at Grace Lutheran Church.

Bonnie and Marvin made their home on the Merkens family farm near Lockhart, where she devoted herself to raising their two children, caring for their home, and working as a home cleaner. A longtime member of First English Lutheran Church in Lockhart, she served with the Ladies Aid and gave generously of her time. In the early 2000s they moved to Pelican Rapids before later returning to the Twin Valley area. At Zion Lutheran Church, Bonnie continued to serve wherever she was needed, quietly living her faith through countless acts of kindness. She regularly visited the local nursing home to paint residents’ fingernails, and she held a special love for children, embracing her roles as grandmother and great-grandmother with joy.

Bonnie was an avid quilter who made baby quilts for every child she knew. She took pride in cooking and baking, welcoming friends and family with a warm smile, a heartfelt hug, and a table that always felt like home. In quieter moments she enjoyed embroidery, creating beautiful pieces that reflected her patience and creativity. She will be remembered for her vibrant energy, generous heart, and the simple, loving ways she cared for those around her.

She is survived by her husband, Marvin of Ada; her children, Michelle “Missy” (Keith) Okeson of Roseau, Minnesota, and Jay (Ann) Merkens of Ada; four grandchildren, Taylor (Marshall) Hahn, Tanner (Kelsie) Okeson, Joel (Liz) Merkens, and Lexi (Nic Prothero) Merkens; six great-grandchildren, Nora, Everett, Ruby, Henry, Annie, and Liana; two sisters, Diana Woltjer and Charlene (Dennis) Brandt; two sisters-in-law, Karen Fjeld and Darlene Fjeld; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Bernice; two brothers, Dennis and Jerry; and a brother-in-law, Marlyn Woltjer.