John Weikel Merchent

Born on November 16, 1930 in Roanoke, he was the son of the late John and Ruth Merchent.

John retired from B&W in 1993 with 37 years of service. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. He was an avid longtime Redskins fan. A prankster and witty fellow, he loved to sit and “talk about things” or “Kibitz” as he always said. Family meant everything to John as he enjoyed spending time with his wife, kids and grandchildren just sitting and talking about life.

In addition to his wife, Odessa, he is survived by his children, Valerie A. Merchent of Rustburg, J. Elaine Merchent of Lynchburg, Tammy M. Blanchette and husband Dave of Concord, John W. Merchent, III of Lynchburg, and Carla M. Smith and husband Reggie of Forest; three grandchildren, Jessica W. Jamison and husband Paul, Charles W. Merchent and wife Bailey, and Darren N. Smith; one great grandchild, Beau W. Merchent; and his two siblings, Janice Patsell of Roanoke and Thomas Merchent of Pleasant Garden, NC.

The family will celebrate John’s life by receiving friends from 6 to 8 pm on Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. There will be no other formal services at this time.