Our beloved mother Wanda Eileen Merlo 82 of Urbana died at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at home.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, April 18, 2014 at Eastlawn Cemetery, Urbana with her daughter Cindi Adkins officiating. There will be no public visitation. Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Merlo was born on November 15, 1931 in Greenup, the daughter of Earl and Myrl Mathews Swim.

Survivors include her children; Cindi Adkins and Tom Merlo, both of Urbana, three brothers; Gary Swim of Urbana, Randy Swim of Champaign and Earl John "EJ" Swim of Dewey, one sister; Dorothy Leah Mansfield of Urbana and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved sister; Sheila.

Wanda in her youth along with her sister Sheila won many dance competitions.

She loved animals very much, especially horses, and was an accomplished horse trainer and won many awards at competition.

Wanda loved being a mom and loved her family immensely; her cheerful spirit was an inspiration to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society or to an organization of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.