Mabel Mae (Miller) Merkal

Mabel Mae Merkal, born on March 17, 1937, in Van Vleck, Texas, passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 88. She was the beloved daughter of Fred and Ruby (Peterson) Miller. Mabel graduated from Van Vleck High School in 1955.

Mabel was a devoted housewife and the owner of Merkal Trailer Park. She married Dean Arnold Merkal in 1960, and they shared 56 years of marriage until his passing on January 1, 2016. Together, they raised their son, Troy Dean Merkal, born in 1968. Mabel was a dedicated baseball team mom from 1974 to 1986. Her family includes her cherished grandchildren, Ashley Nicole Merkal, Lance Allen Hahn, and Robert Dean Merkal, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Mabel was a woman of many interests, including book reading, crochet, cooking, fishing, gardening, and home repairs. Her community involvement was extensive, sponsoring baseball teams, FFA projects, and contributing to her church and numerous charity organizations.

A devoted Christian, Mabel was known for her selflessness and resilience. She was a giving person, a great wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, always willing to help someone in need. Her family-oriented nature left a lasting legacy.

Mabel is survived by her son, Troy Merkal; her granddaughter, Ashley Merkal; her grandsons, Lance Allen Hahn and Robert Dean Merkal; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Ruby Miller; her brothers, Melvin, Earl, Ray, and Monroe Miller; her sister, Christine Miller; and her nephews, Melvin Jr. and Ray Lee Miller.

Her life was a testament to her faith, as reflected in her favorite scripture, Psalm 23:1-6. Mabel Mae Merkal will be remembered for her unwavering devotion and the love she shared with all who knew her.