Frank, J. Merie (Wittkopp-Diede), Jan. 31, 1934- Jan. 31, 2014 Billings Gazette Billings, Montana 4 Feb 2014 Merie Frank Our loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on her 80th birthday, Jan. 31, 2014. Merie was born and raised in Billings, the daughter of Karl and Christina (Bach) Wittkopp. She graduated from Billings Senior High in 1953. She married Thomas R. Diede on Nov. 1, 1954, and three children were born to their union. Merie enjoyed many activities with her loving family and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Dawn (Tom) Ripley of Caldwell, Idaho; two sons, Les (Michelle) Diede of Worland, Wyo., and Mark (Irene) Diede of Gillette, Wyo.; sister Carol (Bill) Baxter of Billings; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers; first husband Tom Diede; second husband Herman Frank; and grandson Loren Diede. Viewing will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at Central Christian Church. Following services, burial will be in Mountview Cemetery.