Frances Jane “Janie” Merkel, 71, Celestine

Frances Jane “Janie” Merkel, 71, of Celestine, passed away at 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at home surrounded by family.

Janie was born in French Lick on December 5, 1953, to Russel Sr. and Betty Jane (Flick) Farris. 

She married Andrew “Andy” Paul Merkel on September 7, 1973, at St. Peter Celestine Catholic Church in Celestine, Indiana.

She worked at Indiana Furniture and Heichelbech’s Restaurant.

She was a member of St. Isidore Parish – St. Celestine Catholic Church in Celestine, Indiana.

She enjoyed spending time with her grandkids.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Andy Merkel of Celestine; two children, Jason (Kathleen) Merkel of St. Anthony and Wendy (Greg) Jeffries of Celestine; three grandchildren, Madelyn Merkel, and Heidi and Isaac Jeffries; two brothers, Gary (Justine) Farris of Sheffield Lake, Ohio and Mick (Susan) Farris of French Lick.

Preceding her in death are one sister, Cynda Jo Potts, and four brothers, Russel Jr. “Butch”, David, Roy Dale, and Monty Farris.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.becherkluesner.com.