Merilee L. Curtis, 74, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2018 at her home in Apple Canyon Lake, IL, surrounded by her loving family.

Merilee was born on August 15, 1943 in Fort Rucker, AL, the daughter of the late John and LaVern LaPota.  She grew up in Evanston and graduated from ETHS in 1961. Merilee graduated from Northern Illinois University in 1966 with her teaching degree and taught in the St. Charles Public School District for four years until her daughter Jennie was born. Merilee then worked at the St. Charles Public Library for over 35 years, officiallyretiring in 2013. She was also a member of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce Women’s Business Council and was awarded the L.E.A.P. Award in 2013.

On August 17, 1968 Merilee married Dane Curtis and together they would have celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary this year. They enjoyed traveling the worldtogether with friends.  Merilee was an avid reader and loved playing cards.  She was an impeccable dresser and loved to shop for the best bargains. She never met a garage sale she didn’t love.  She enjoyed spending the winters in Florida with Dane, swimming, playing bridgeand chatting with her Florida friends.  Merilee was a gentle and classy soul who had a loving heart and would do anything for her family and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, John and LaVernLaPota and her grandparents, George and Lea Giles.

Merilee leaves her loving legacy to be cherished by herhusband Dane, daughter, Jennie Curtis of Maple Park, IL,and many dear friends.

Services will be private.

Arrangements were made by Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL. Contributions can be made to the St. Charles Public Library Foundation, One South Sixth Ave., St. Charles, IL 60174 or Anderson Animal Shelter, 1000 South LaFoxSt., South Elgin, IL 60177.