Jo Ann Merrell (nee Largen). Age 71. Passed away February 15th surrounded by her family. Beloved wife of the late John M. "Jack" Merrell. Stepmother of Norma Merrell. Cherished sister of Frances Largen, Linda (Raymond) Christian, Judith Gilchrist, John (Sandy) Largen Jr. and Alice Largen (Mary Sheridan). Stepsister of Penny Price. Loving cousin of Carl "Skip" (Linda) Vath, Jeanette Kulish and the Grattino and Lucas Families. Dearest friend of Carole Fawcett. Loving aunt, cousin and friend to many.

Jo Ann found great happiness volunteering for Amputee Empowerment Partners. Jo Ann provided strong peer to peer support to new amputees. She served as a role model and mentor to many people. Jo Ann provided answers, encouragement, support and information to new amputees and their families for those who had similar experiences. She changed many lives with her positive outlook on life. She was a beautiful person and for that Jo Ann received the AEP volunteer of the year award.

Contributions to the family for funeral expenses would be appreciated. Family will receive friends at the David Martens & Son Funeral Home 4175 Rocky River Drive (between Lorain & Puritas) on Monday, February 19th, from 4-8 p.m. A service of remembrance will be held at 7:30. Burial will take place at a future date.