Chanhassen, MN - JoAnn "Joni" Wetzel (Mergens), age 94, passed away peacefully on March 29, surrounded by her family and beloved dog, Clyde.

Joni was born on November 13, 1931 to Edward and Ida (Aldritt) Mergens of Cottagewood. As a little girl, she had baby ducks and viewed her dogs as playmates. She graduated from Deephaven School in 1950. After her father died when she was 19, she began a 15 year-long career at Cargill, where she worked as a switchboard operator and secretary. In 1966, she married long-time beau, Dean Wetzel, for his love of animals and gentle demeanor. They raised two daughters on Christmas Lake, along with a menagerie of dogs and other creatures. Their home served as a gathering place for friends and family for over 60 years.

Joni was a loving mom and doting "Mimi" (grandma), who attended as many school performances and sporting events as she could. She also supported her gay kid. Nothing made her happier than spending time with her grandchildren. Joni taught her family what's important by simply being herself. She delivered Meals on Wheels and valued her church community. She enjoyed life's simple pleasures and always ordered dessert. She showed her family how to laugh at themselves, be empathetic and grateful.

Preceded in death by her husband, Dean, sister, Mary Lou Williams, and nephew, Eddie Williams, Survived by daughters, Dena (Sarah) and Tara (Charlie), grandchildren, Isobel, Lucas, and William, and nieces, Teri and Susie.

Celebration of Mimi, July 13, 2:00PM, Congregational Church of Excelsior (CC of E). Please send memorials to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota: wrcmn.org/donate or the Congregational Church of Excelsior: secure.myvanco.com/L-Z260/home.