Fran was proceeded in death by her loving husband of 48 years, Joe Merda, Jr and her parents Henry and Rose (Zupancic) Neidert. She leaves her five wonderful children, Paul, Beth Abbott (Mike), Mike (Julie), Amy, and Julianne as well as eight fantastic grandchildren Rossi, Megan, Adam, Mitchell, Gabby, Alex, Tanya, Sammy and great granddaughter Merida. Fran also leaves her loving brothers, John Neidert (Lindy) and Robert Neidert (Patricia) as well as her sister in law, Maggie Nemec (John) many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, colleagues, and students.

In her lifetime, Fran was dedicated to making all those around her feel loved and supported and gave her all with anything or anyone she met. Fran always had a positive word, a funny joke, or a hug when needed, and to know her is to love her. She lovingly gave her time as a Girl Scout Leader, a Eucharistic Minister & Ladies Guild Member at Annunciation Church, and was a very supportive parent for soccer, softball, volleyball, football, and band.

Fran graduated from Sienna Heights College in Michigan as a Dietitian and wore many hats in her over 50-year career. Fran worked in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and as an instructor at The University of Akron and Stark State College in the Culinary and Dietetics programs. Her generosity, and passion for education inspired all those she encountered.

Fran's legacy of dedication to education and unwavering love for her family will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know her. May she rest in peace and her memory be forever cherished.

The family will receive friends, Thursday, Oct 24 from 5-8 pm at the Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home (811 Grant St). Mass of a Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, Oct 25 at 10:00 am at Visitation of Mary/Annunciation Parish (55 Broad St, Akron, Ohio 44305). Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery (100 E Waterloo Rd). Mass of a Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, Oct 25 at 10:00 am at Visitation of Mary/Annunciation Parish (55 Broad St, Akron, Ohio 44305). Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery (100 E Waterloo Rd).