MERI VAN MAARION

MERI VAN MAARION

June 5, 1955 ~ June 30, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Meridith Alice Van Maarion (nee Noyes) on Monday, June 30, 2025, at the age of 70 years. The memory of Mom is cherished by her husband of 50 years, Richard; children, Jesse (Ashley) Van Maarion – Montana, Meadow, and Jasper; Megan (Jared) Wever – Sophia, Mila,and Barent; and Emily (Tim) Erickson – Steele, Ember, and Iver; sister, Kathy Noyes; brother, Jim Noyes as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. Meri was predeceased by her loving parents, Marjorie and Noel Noyes and in-laws, Leonard and Caroline Van Maarion with whom she had a special relationship.

Meri was born on June 5, 1955, in Calgary, grew up on a farm near Innisfail and had a wonderful childhood where she was surrounded by many special family and friends . She lived a life of compassion and kindness, touching the lives of many with her positive outlook on life, wonderful advice and love for others.

She was a teacher in the Medicine Hat School Division for over 30 years where she was a dedicated classroom teacher, school counsellor and Vice-Principal. Meri worked at both Southview and Crestwood Schools where she created many lifelong friendships.

4-H was a part of mom’s life from a child, to a parent volunteer, and now a grandmother. She had a special group of 4-H friends and enjoyed their many get-togethers.

Mom and dad were married 50 years and had an incredible life together. Over the years, they enjoyed skiing, fishing, rock hunting, camping, traveling and spending as much time with the grandkids as they could. Mom wanted to make sure the grandkids also had the same opportunities to love these adventures as well.

After retirement in 2016, mom and dad moved out near Bow Island. Her focus quickly switched from her career to now being a grandmother and homemaker – what she always said she wanted to do and made sure the cookie jar was always full for the grandkids.

In more recent days when Mom did not feel well, Dad was fully devoted in caring for her – she often mentioned, “he sure is a good nurse”. Her positive outlook on life shined through even in some of her hardest days, and she still laughed often.

Mom made everyone in her presence feel like family. The door was always open, the coffee was on and the crib board never collected dust. Mom truly had the most inviting heart and home.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Sunday, July 6, 2025, between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. A Celebration of Meri’s life will be held at the Cypress Centre, 2055 – 21 Avenue S.E., Medicine Hat on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with David George officiating. Meri’s service will be live-streamed.  Those who cannot attend but wish to experience her celebration may visit the Cook Southland Funeral Chapel website and select the View Broadcast button on the homepage at service time. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com)  Memorial donations in Meri’s name may be made directly to the Bringing Hearts Home Cardiac Campaign, c/o Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, 960 – 19 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 1W5. Honoured to serve the family is

Cook Southland Funeral
Chapel Crematorium &
Reception Facility
901 – 13th Street S.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4
Phone 403-527-6455
www.cooksouthland.com
“Locally owned & directed”