Minnie Marchant

For most of her 102 years, Minnie Schmidt Marchant lived on Darmstadt Road in Evansville, Indiana.  She grew up playing in and around her parents’ farm and commercial greenhouse.  She attended Highland School, and was a proud “Class of 37” alumnus of Reitz High School. She enjoyed attending the annual high school reunions as long as they were held.

She continued her education at Evansville College, where she received a degree in education.

Minnie loved music.  In her youth she learned the violin, during her college years played with the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra and later added her voice to the church choir.

 

Minnie was the oldest lifelong member of Salem United Methodist Church. There she was active in Women’s organizations and enjoyed helping with church dinners and rummage sales. She loved quilting with friends and helped organize the Piecemakers. With this group she was active in 4-H Center activities, Southern Indiana Antique and Machinery Club, Indiana State Fair Pioneer Village, and educational events showing off her Pioneer wear and award-winning quilts. The Piecemakers Quilting group was honored as Indiana State Fair Masters in 2005.

 

Family was always of prime importance to her. She raised her 5 children encouraging open minds, strength, and creativity. She fed them suppers made from Guy’s garden and clothed them with the latest fashions she made herself.

She always loved to travel.  She and Guy took driving and camping vacations with the kids and when the kids left the roost, they traveled to visit the kids, who had spread across North America.  They also enjoyed attending Elder Hostels, particularly in the West, where they learned the history of the region and pioneer skills.

When Guy died in 1999, Minnie continued to travel.  As her children spread even further afield, she extended her travels into Europe, Canada, and Hong Kong.  She remained adventurous and liked to say, “Never pass up a joy ride”.

 

Minnie is preceded in death by her husband Guy D Marchant and sister Louise Hennekes. Survivors include her brother William “Bud” Schmidt, Children: David Marchant (Joan) of McBride British Columbia Canada, Nancy Marchant of The Hague Netherlands, Jane (George Tom Brown) of Evansville, Rob (Mandy) of Plano Texas, and Roy of Cerritos California. Grandchildren: Sadia and Jacy Brimm, Rosalie and Mathilde Stone, Eamon and Vesper Marchant, and Alex and Adrian Marchant.  8 great grandchildren. There will be a cremation burial service at a later date when family members can all be together.

 

To all of the caregivers who helped and befriended her, the family deep heartedly and respectfully thanks you. We will all miss her wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit. Condolences can be shared thru simplecremationevansville.com

 

In honor of Minnie, have a Root Beer Float, or as she would call them a Darmstadt Cooler!