We’re heartbroken to share that Merle Burns, from Windsor, has passed away peacefully at 84 years old with her loving family around her. She is predeceased by her beloved husband and best friend, James (Chick, 2013), with whom she shared 47 wonderful years. Her sons Brad (Dawn) and Greg (Adèle) will miss her dearly. She was a proud “Nana” to her cherished grandson, Aidan and his fiancée Misi, and she was also predeceased by her grandson Brendan.
Merle will be greatly missed by her sister-in-law Marion Godkin (late Lavern), brothers-in-law Pat Burns (late Bernice), and Ronnie (Sharon), along with many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents Edmund and Olive Godkin (Medd), stepmother Ida (Mc Clinchey) Godkin, and siblings Mervin Godkin (June), Lavern Godkin, Olene Dennis (Murray), Audrey Beuermann (Lloyd), and Lois Sinclair (Glen); sisters-in-law Joanne Arnold (Alec), Mary Loretta Burns; brother-in-law Thomas Burns (Rita); and Robert Burns (Betty).
Merle grew up on a farm in Huron County where she always had an interest in crops and harvests. She met Chick on a blind date on New Year’s Eve, which started a beautiful journey together. They were best friends who truly valued their time spent raising their two sons while enjoying weekends at their trailer or later at their cottage in Ipperwash. Merle worked as a nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Sarnia for many years, which brought her great joy. In 2001, Merle and Chick moved to Windsor to be closer to family. Aidan held a special place in her heart; she cherished every moment they spent together.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Doctors and Nurses at Windsor Regional Hospital – Ouellette Campus ER, telemetry unit, and CCU. Also appreciated are the staff on the 5th and 10th floors at London University Hospital for their kindness during Merle’s brief stay there.
In keeping with Merle’s wishes, cremation has already taken place.
A memorial visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel – Banwell Chapel (11677 Tecumseh Rd E) on Wednesday, August 19th, 2026, from 10 am until the service begins at noon. At a later date, she will be laid to rest alongside Chick at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery in Sarnia.
Instead of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Merle’s name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society-causes that are particularly meaningful for our family.
Online condolences and fond memories can be shared with the family at windsorchapel. com
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