Merle Louise Stanley (nee Coates) of Winnipeg, MB, passed away peacefully with her husband by her side, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at the age of 74 years.

Merle was born on October 11, 1950 in Glenboro, MB and grew up on the family farm, north of Glenboro, attending first Patricia School, then Glenboro School and finally Assiniboine College.

After holding several clerical positions in her home area she moved to Winnipeg where she worked for a series of law firms before joining North West Trust (subsequently purchased by Canadian Western Bank) staying until her retirement in 2015.

Merle was predeceased by her parents, Alice and Lawrence Coates and her infant brother Ross. She is survived by her husband Kirk Stanley, her brother Murray Coates, and their families.

Merle has expressed her gratitude to those who have provided encouragement and support during her illness. She has chosen cremation, with interment of the urn at her parents' grave site in the Glenboro Cemetery.  No formal remembrance services will be held.