Rita L. Merz

Columbiana - March 28, 2009 - Rita L. Merz, 60, of Columbiana, died Saturday in Youngstown after being stricken at her home of an aneurysm.

Rita was born July 30, 1948 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Stephen and Anna Popson Blasko.

She was a graduate of South High School, Youngstown (Class of 1966). She was a member of the Downtown Lions Club and a long-time dedicated employee of the Mahoning County Clerk of Courts, Tony Vivo. Prior to that, she was secretary for Attorney Joseph Bryan for many years. She also was employed by Judges Harold Richert and Martin Joyce. Rita enjoyed her hobbies of solving puzzles, reading, bicycle riding, dancing and shopping. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her five grandchildren.

She is survived by husband of 38 years, Paul; three daughters, Susan (J.C.) Parker, Lisa (Lee) Russell, and Beth (Eric) Nelson; two sisters, Jackie (Tom) Repchic, and Michelle Beam; two brothers, Steve (Mary Lou) Blasko and Michael (Rita) Blasko; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a nephew, Tommy Repchic.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Leetonia with the Reverend Thomas Eisweirth officiating, preceded by a brief prayer service at the Woods-Rettig Funeral Home beginning at 10:30 a.m. Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Woods-Rettig Funeral Home, Leetonia.

In lieu of flowers, tributes may take the form of a donation in her memory to the Downtown Youngstown Lions Club, P. O. Box 1262, Youngstown, OH 44501.

As a great giver in life, Rita gave in death as an organ donor.