Darla Jean (Ver Ploeg) Merwald, 65, of Marshalltown, passed away Wednes-day, July 21, 2021, surrounded by Ed, Mike, and Missy at Iowa Lutheran Hos-pital in Des Moines. Darla had a difficult battle with Lewy Body Dementia and is finally at peace. Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 a.m., Monday, July 26, at St. Francis of Assisi ~ St. Henry Catholic Church in Marshalltown. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University of Iowa Center for Advancement to support Alzheimer's Disease Research Fund - Lewy Body Research or the Iowa 4-H Foundation designated to the Iowa State 4-H Horse Program. Online condolences may be sent to www.andersonfhs.com
Darla was born Mar. 17, 1956, in Oskaloosa to Chadwick and Irene (Elscott) Ver Ploeg. She grew up on the family farm near Sully with three siblings. Darla and Ed Merwald found each other in Marshalltown and married in 1985. Mike was born in 1986 and Missy was born in 1988 and are Darla and Ed’s pride and joy. Darla spent her days riding, showing, and judging horses while also supporting the Iowa State 4-H Horse Program. Most importantly, she always took care of her family above all things even through her passing. Darla has been described as a spitfire, feisty, caring, loving, a horse show mom, spirited, and always on the go!
Darla is survived by her husband, Ed of 36 years; her children Mike (Lindsay) Merwald of Leawood, KS, and Missy (Dusty) Grothoff of Ankeny; her grandson Myles Merwald; her siblings: Doyle (Karna) Ver Ploeg, Diane (Steve) Vos, and Duane (Myrna) Ver Ploeg.
Darla was predeceased by her parents, Ed’s parents William and Delores Merwald, and a brother in infancy.
Darla will forever be loved and forever be remembered.
