Violet M. Keckler Merryman

Violet Merryman, age 85, of Savanna, Illinois, and formerly of Mt. Carroll, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna. A funeral service will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, at Law Jones Funeral Home in Mt. Carroll. Visitation will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., preceding the service. Violet will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Born on September 19, 1939, in Milledgeville, Illinois, Violet was the daughter of Victor and Edna (Beaston) Buchholz. She grew up in Mt. Carroll and was a proud alumna of Mt. Carroll Schools. Throughout her life, Violet wore many hats, working for various local businesses before finding her calling at Carroll Place in Mt. Carroll. There, she served as a beloved cook for over 20 years, where her culinary talents became a cherished part of the lives of residents and staff alike. Her dishes were often praised and fondly remembered by those who tasted them.

Beyond her professional life, Violet was a committed community member. She was actively involved in leadership roles within the local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, demonstrating a deep commitment to nurturing and guiding youth. An avid bowler, she was a member of the Mt. Carroll Bowling League and a faithful congregant of the Mt. Carroll Church of God. Violet found joy in simple pleasures—cooking, reading, solving puzzles, and attending performances at the Timberlake Playhouse.

Above all, Violet’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She cherished moments with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always providing unwavering love and support.

She is survived by her two daughters, Mary (Daniel) Kruse of Mt. Carroll, and Vicki (Bryan) Veruchi of Freeport, Illinois; six grandchildren, Mistia Cook, Jose Castro, Rebecca Kruse, Brianna (Austin) Duerksen, Katy Cook, and Colton Veruchi; eight great-grandchildren, Layney, Jozlynn, Cutter, Priseis, Cyrus, Lincoln, Reagan, and Owen; and one brother, Larry Buchholz of Mt. Carroll.

Violet was preceded in death by her sons, Mark Cook and David Keckler; her daughter-in-law, Robin Cook; her parents, Victor and Edna; and her brother, Victor “Jim” Buchholz.