Gerard William Merkle

COLUMBIA- A memorial service for Gerard William Merkle will be held Saturday, April 6, 2013 at 3:00pm at Redeemer Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends from 2-3 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 525 St. Andrews Rd. Columbia, SC 29210 or The Alzheimer’s Association, 2999 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia, SC 29169.

Mr. Merkle passed away April 4, 2013. Born on June 21, 1923 he was the son of the late Robert and Grace Foxton Merkle. Gerard attended the University of Buffalo receiving a degree in Business Administration. He was a HVAC salesman and consultant for 55 years with Honeywell, Barber-Coleman and CMI. He was a member of the US Air Force and served tours of active duty including World War II with the US Army Air Corps. Gerard retired from the New York Air National Guard in 1972. He was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and Choir. He was also a member of the Arpad Darazs Singers. He was an avid golfer and gardener.

Mr. Merkle is survived by his wife Lois Piper Merkle, son, Jonathan Merkle (Carol) of Cuba, NY, son, Christopher Merkle (Elizabeth) of Medina, OH, daughter, Jennifer Thorpe (Jeffrey) Centreville, VA, son, Andrew Merkle of Lantana, TX, son, Gerard Merkle of Columbia, SC, 13 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren. Mr. Merkle was predeceased by one daughter, Dixie.