Edward R Merkling

Edward R. (Merk) Merkling, 95, died peacefully at home on Friday, April 11, 2025. Born on July 8, 1929 in Oakpark, Illinois, Ed was the son of the late Merritt J. Merkling and Gertrude Ball Merkling. He was also predeceased by his son, Andrew.

Ed grew up in Lakewood, Ohio and graduated from Lakewood High School. He then graduated from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio with a Bachelor's Degree in Business. He was hired by Alcoa (now Arconic) in Cleveland, Ohio working in Labor Relations. He took a Military Leave for two years and then returned to his job. He had transfers to Lafayette, Indiana, Pottsville, Pennsylvania and Maryville, Tennessee before going to Alcoa's home office in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was during the Pottsville transfer that he met his beloved wife of 61 years, Hattie Merkling.

After a successful 30 year career, he retired and came to Newport News Shipbuilding as a Manager of Labor Relations. The family loved the move to Williamsburg in 1981.

Ed was a long time member of the Kingsmill Golf Club, Odd Lots Association, and the now ancient Order of Ball Hawks. He served as an officer of the Board of Elections and was an active member of CARMA and his beloved Crown Colony Club.

Ed's Mass and burial in the Columbarium will take place at St. Bede Catholic Church, where he was an usher for 12 years. Services will be private. The Merkling family would like to thank our wonderful friends and neighbors for their understanding.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.nelsenwilliamsburg.com.