Merna Rae Fraser

Merna Rae Fraser passed away April 11,2025 at HopeWest in Grand Junction, Colorado surrounded by her family. She was 86 years old.

Merna was born August 28, 1938 at the home of her Grandparents, the Lashley's, on Ash Mesa in Delta, Co. Her parents were Helen and Leonard Burch. She grew up in Olathe, Co and graduated from Olathe High School in 1956.

Merna met the love of her life, Ralph Fraser, when they were freshmen in high school and were married November 23, 1956. They had celebrated 68 wonderful years of marriage.

Merna and Ralph made their home in Delta, where they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith. A lifelong resident of the Western Slope, Merna lived her days with grace, strength, and a deep faith that guided her through life’s joys and challenges. More than anything, she dreamed of being a wife, mother, and grandmother — a dream she lived out beautifully. She truly was one of the best.

Merna found joy in gardening, canning, camping, and four-wheeling, but most of all, she cherished time spent with family and friends. Her faith was the quiet foundation of her life — a steady presence that shaped her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for others.

Merna was a devoted wife and mother and is survived by her husband, Ralph Fraser of Delta, her children: Rod Fraser(Tammy) of Delta, ReNee Charles (Ron) of Commerce City, Co, Kirk Fraser (Cricket) of Delta, Co and Daughter-in-law Tami Fraser of Colorado Springs, Co. She is also survived by her siblings: Ronnie Burch, Bradley Burch, Wanda Boyd, Alvin Burch and Debbie Hawks. Her legacy of love lives on through her family, including 13 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Merna was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Helen Burch, her sisters, Lorna Orth and Margene Oswald. She was also preceded in death by her sons, Dennis Fraser and Keith Fraser and great-granddaughter, Emilie Hope Liebold.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, April 18, 2025 at the First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd, Delta, Co. Graveside services will follow at Delta City Cemetery with a meal provided after at the First Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Merna's name to HopeWest Ferris Care Center, 3090 N 12th, Grand Junction, Co 81506.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory.

View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at:

www.taylorfuneralservice.com.