Iola I. Gomez

Iola Itz Merbeth Gomez passed away in her sleep on September 30, 2025, at the age of 89. She will be remembered by everyone who loved her as a bright, interesting, loving, generous and kind person with a delightful sense of humor and a beautiful soul.

Born February 5, 1936, Iola was the youngest of the five children born to her beloved late parents, Erwin and Elna Mina (née Durst) Itz, and grew up on the family farm in Fredericksburg, Texas. Iola was known for her energetic, upbeat, and fun personality throughout her long life. She was a good listener, an engaging conversationalist, a patient teacher in life lessons, an excellent cook and an extraordinary mother, grandmother, and friend.

Iola married Gus Charles (“Charley”) Merbeth on February 17, 1957, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg, Texas. Together for 21 years of marriage, they were blessed and incredibly proud of their sons, Russell and David. Late in life, Iola married Miguel "Mike" Gomez, an old high school friend, and relocated from Texas to Illinois to be near her youngest son, David, and his family.

Iola was predeceased by her parents; her four siblings, Leo Itz, Paula Itz Hein, Harold Itz, and Ella Itz Fetzer; husbands, Gus Charles "Charley" Merbeth and Miguel "Mike" Gomez; and grandson, Phillip MacNeil "Mac" Merbeth. She is survived by her sons, Russell Charles Merbeth (and his partner, Audrey Schaefer) and David Charles Merbeth (and his wife, Mary Ellen); her grandchildren, Martha Winona "Molly" Merbeth and Declan C. Merbeth; numerous nieces and nephews; and many devoted dear friends.

A celebration of her life is planned, with no date set yet.