Earl "Poke" Ronald Markle

He was born on November 11, 1926, in Michigan City, Indiana, to Ervin and Mildred (Deavers) Markle. Earl married Lois Caho in Peoria on June 14, 1947, and she preceded him in death on June 25, 2021.

Earl was also preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Betty Helms; and one brother, John Emery, who was lost at sea while serving in the Navy’s submarine service during the World War II.

Surviving are four sons, Ronald Markle of Peoria, Randy (Ann Marie) Markle of Germantown Hills and Roger (Janice) Markle and Robert (Christina) Markle, both of Mapleton; 12 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Earl graduated from Woodruff High School, Class of 1944. Immediately after graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy during World War II.

After the war, Earl spent 30 years working at Hiram Walker, while also making a name for himself in the construction trades. For over 50 years, he worked as a cement finisher, bricklayer and insulator, gaining a reputation as a jack of all trades, and a master of some.

Earl excelled particularly in carpentry and masonry, with a skill set and work ethic that made him a go-to man for any job. Whether fixing a car, laying out brick or helping neighbors with projects big or small, Earl was always willing to lend a hand.

He was a proud member of Heat and Frost Insulators Local 17 and held lifelong memberships with the Shriners and the Free Masons.

Earl was a longtime member of First Baptist Church and belonged to PMC (Peoria Motorcycle Club). Earl enjoyed fishing, riding motorcycles, sharing stories and helping others.

He was married to the love of his life for 74 remarkable years. Earl also found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren.

A funeral service for Earl will be held 11:00 am Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria, with visitation being held one hour prior to the service. Pastor Steve Barch will officiate. Burial will conclude at Parkview Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Peoria Honor Flight program.