Lasting Memories

Meribeth Detweiler
Aug. 9, 1955-Jan. 23, 2016
Pleasanton, California

After a six year battle with colon cancer, Meribeth Detweiler was called to the Lord at the age of 60 while surrounded by her immediate family. Meribeth is survived by her husband Karl and their children, Joel(Sarah), Todd and Jayna, her nieces Kathy Houret, Jayne Bower and Mindy Prow. and her “adoptive sister” Janet Kittler. She was born in Terre Haute, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Evelyn Ellingsworth and her sister Jacque Bower. She graduated from West Vigo High School in Terre Haute and San Jose State University. She was brave to the end as she fought for her life, enduring numerous surgeries and chemo treatments with unbelievable strength and positive emotions. She loved to dance, loved to entertain, loved her children, her husband, her friends and especially her community. She served on the Pleasanton Human Services Commission and was a volunteer Barton Tutor at Valley View for many years. She also actively supported many local politicians and causes.

From Leonore Soppet
Jan. 31, 2016

Our heartfelt condolences. It was a honor to have known Meribeth. She was a beautiful person with a big heart. The last time we chatted at Ruby Hills she expressed how proud she was of her children and told me of the future plans they shared. She was so vibrant and positive. Her presence will be missed but her memory will stay with us all. God's blessings and love to her family and friends.

From Juliet Palma
Jan. 30, 2016

I am so sorry. May the Lord who is keeping Meribeth - comfort you all at this time. Meribeth is a beacon of light to all she touched. She touched me and so many. I always think of her bright smile, loving heart, and laugh that spread joy--Always so positive! My heart and prayers go out to you all. With Love.

From Julie Testa
Jan. 30, 2016

Words cannot begin to express my sorrow. I will miss my dear friend and confrere in community advocacy. Together we campaigned for the disadvantaged on the Pleasanton Human Service Commission, and shared passion for many community issues. Meribeth has always been a fierce but gentle champion. Her greatest battle has been against cancer, which she valiantly beat for six years, treasuring each of those hard won days spent with her beloved family. We love you Meribeth, we will miss you in so many ways. Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

From Jaclyn Horan
Jan. 29, 2016

She is in a better place.. but this world is a lesser place without Meribeth in it. She cared for so many around her.. gave of herself every chance she had and loved her family like she loved life... with a passion. To say she is missed is one of the greatest understatements of my life.

From Laura Beer
Jan. 29, 2016

To know Meibeth was to know a person that brought passion, energy, conviction, and dedication to all endeavors. A most beautiful woman, friend, mother and wife. It is my sincere hope that the precious memories you have will comfort you through these days ahead.

From Jan Ash
Jan. 28, 2016

It was an honor to know Meribeth. She was always kind and had such a smile and laugh. I remember a wonderful camping trip with Meribeth and the children and she kept us smiling the entire time. Meribeth was a true joy to know and will be greatly missed. All our prayers for you and your family Karl. She fought a brave and passionate fight and still always thought of others around her.

From Vince Rosdahl
Jan. 28, 2016

Karl, I am so sorry for your loss. It was a real honor knowing Meribeth. I appreciated sharing chemo stories with her. The way that Meribeth approached her cancer was an inspiration to all that knew her. I am glad that I was able to share some time with you and Meribeth. May the Lord bless you and your children.

From Suzan Hopman
Jan. 28, 2016

It was such an honor and Blessing to get to know Meribeth, Karl & Jayna. The strength, faith and positive attitude demonstrated throughout was so inspiring. Meribeth's smile and way of looking at things brings a smile to those lucky enough to have spent time with this amazing women. Thanks be to God and Janet Kittler for introducing me to this fabulous family. Many prayers!

From Cheryl cohen
Jan. 28, 2016

Our family is so sorry to read of Maribeth's passing. She fought so hard for so long! we send our deepest condolences to the family.

From Cheryl Cohen
Jan. 28, 2016

Our family is so sorry to read of Maribeth's passing. She fought so hard for so long! we send our deepest condolences to the family.

From Lynette Craner
Jan. 28, 2016

Dear Karl, Joel, Todd and Jayna, I know that you are all tremendously proud of Meribeth. She was beautiful, down to earth, funny, passionate about Pleasanton, courageous, wry, and generous. I will always remember the beautiful gatherings that she organized for those of us who were praying for her and for her family. I feel that Meribeth has set such a great example for me,and I will miss her so much.

From Sue Compton
Jan. 27, 2016

On behalf of Axis Community Health, many thanks to Meribeth for her service to the community on the City of Pleasanton's human services commission. Meribeth cared deeply for all members of our community and we will miss her. We send hugs to her family.

From Mike and Chris Smith
Jan. 27, 2016

Our hearts are heavy with the loss of beautiful Meribeth. She was a wonderful friend and we feel honored to have known her. She was so courageous in the face of her cancer and set an example of strength, determination and love the entire time. She will be missed by so many. Sending you all our heartfelt love at this difficult time.

From Colleen Schwartz
Jan. 27, 2016

Karl, I am sorry for your loss, and I am humbled by the love and strength of your family. Thanks be to God. Having Meribeth as a friend is a true blessing. Our friendship is everlasting. I will be wearing bright colors in her honor in Ames, Iowa. My prayers are with you and your beautiful family. With love, sorrow and celebration, Colleen Schwartz