Jean Merchen was born March 20, 1942, in Savage, Montana, to Arthur and Alice (Terry) Smith. She was the youngest of six children. Jean grew up in various places in Montana.
Jean met and married her husband, Frank Mathew Merchen, in Worden, Montana, in 1962. Together they lived in Montana, Nebraska and South Dakota. They adopted Loren Merchen in 1967. They also took care of Klover and Marilyn Standing Bear in 1985. They also cared for Vivian Standing Bear in 1986.
Jean really enjoyed crocheting and knitting. She loved spending time in her garden and canning. She spent a lot of time reading and listening to music. She liked having pets and animals around her home. Her most joyous moments were spent going to dances with her husband. She adored her grandchildren and spoiled them with her care and love.
Betty "Jean" Merchen, 78, Whitewood, passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, at her home.
Survivors include her son, Loren Merchen; four grandchildren, Brittany (Chad) Elrod, Cassandra Merchen, Jesse Arends, and Samantha Merchen; and five great-grandchildren, Gabriella Isburg, Cruz Frame, Brinkley Frame, Shiloh Anderson and Emilia Elrod.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Merchen; her parents and siblings.
Visitation will be 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis, SD.
Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2020, at Whitewood Cemetery with Pastor David Baer officiating.

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