It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Merle Halko, who left us peacefully on January 5, 2025, in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Merle was born on October 12, 1943, in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, to Rebecca and Sam Jesse. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered. 
Merle was preceded in death by her husband Peter, dear brothers, Gary, and Ivan. She is survived by her loving daughter, Debbie (Glenn) Pottle and her devoted son, Ward Halko, along with her treasured granddaughter, Jessica (Ray-Al) Hochman, and her cherished grandson, Jordan (Carlyn) Hood. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her great grandchildren Decker, Cabella, Titan, and Arrow. Merle was immensely proud of her family and found joy in every moment spent with them. 

A woman of remarkable strength and passion, Merle was known for her feisty and friendly nature. Her sociable demeanor drew people to her, making her a cherished friend in her community. She was kind-hearted and truly embodied the essence of a loving mother and grandmother. Merle was a strong presence in her siblings' lives, maintaining close relationships with her sisters Shirl (Elmer) Lang, Gloria Marshall (Ron Harty), Eileen (Lee) Sadlemyer, and Dorothy (Tom) Koizumi as well as her brothers Sheldon Jesse, Harvey (Judi) Jesse, Vernon (Darlene) Jesse and Bradley (Brenda) Jesse, as well as her sister in laws Esther and Sharon Jesse. 

Merle’s early career started at the young age of 9 1/2 as a switchboard operator in their family home in Richmond Saskatchewan. Her true passion was hairdressing. In January of 1961 at the age of 17 she began her hairdressing career at Medicine Hat beauty school. As a talented hairdresser for many years, Merle had an innate ability to make others feel beautiful both inside and out. Her warm smile and gentle touch left an indelible mark on all who sat in her chair. She later also enjoyed working in women’s wear retail. 

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Merle embraced a diverse array of hobbies and interests. She was a dedicated hockey, mom and grandmother. Merle enjoyed ceramics, Crosstitch and crocheting showcasing her creative spirit. She was an avid curler although her true passion was golf, a sport that brought joy not only to herself, but also created lasting memories with friends and family during countless sunny afternoons on the greens. 
Throughout her life, Merle demonstrated a remarkable resilience and a zest for living. Her love for life was infectious, and her laughter could light up a room. She leaves behind a community that will fondly remember her friendly smile and kind heart. 
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Medicine Hat Hospital, particularly those on the fourth floor west, for their compassionate care during Merle's final days. 

A celebration of Merle's life will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Pattison Funeral Home & Celebration of Life Centre with Life Celebrant David Townsend Celebrant. 

All are welcome to join in honoring a life so beautifully lived, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. 

The service will be live streamed.  Please follow this link https://youtube.com/live/JRtnuSRg-UU?feature=share

Merle Halko will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.