James Douglas Merkling

November 9, 1953 – March 3, 2026

James Douglas Merkling, known to many as Jim and affectionately called “Jimbo” by countless family members and friends, passed away on March 3, 2026, at the age of 72.

Jim was born in Buffalo, New York, to Raymond Joseph Merkling and Jeanne Gavel Merkling, and grew up in Elma, New York. His childhood was filled with baseball, fishing, and time spent on the lakes of Western New York and nearby Ontario, Canada, experiences that helped shape his lifelong love of the water. He was raised in a large, close extended family and treasured Sundays spent with cousins and grandparents gathered around the dinner table. He attended Canisius High School in Buffalo and later St. Bonaventure University.

Jim possessed the heart of a true entrepreneur and spent much of his life building and running his business, Capack Sales, Inc. He approached work the same way he approached life—with independence, determination, and a willingness to follow his own path.

Above all else, Jim loved his children. His daughter, Caitlyn, and his son, Patrick, were the center of his world. He shared them with his former wife, Charmaine Merkling, their mother, and together they raised two children who were the pride and joy of his life.

Jim was also a proud grandfather—lovingly known as “Paco” to Emberly Gray and Cora Sage Monsees, and “Grandpa Jim” to Macklyn Anne and Miley Marie Merkling. His family eagerly awaits the arrival of another grandson this July, Miller James Merkling, who will carry forward his grandfather’s name.

Baseball was one of Jim’s greatest passions. Over the years he coached and mentored hundreds of young players, forming friendships that lasted long beyond the ballfield. One of his proudest moments was coaching his son Patrick, who later went on to play professional baseball in the minor leagues.

In his later years, Jim returned fully to his love of the water. He spent his time restoring houseboats before settling into his favorite—an 85-foot houseboat that became his home during the last years of his life.

His boat was rarely quiet. It became a gathering place for family and friends, where Jim loved to hold court, sharing stories, laughter, and music while watching the sun set across the water.

Jim spent many years at Victoria Harbour Marina, where he formed deep friendships with fellow boaters who shared his love of life on the lake.

Jim never met a stranger. A natural storyteller with an unforgettable sense of humor, he could captivate a room and leave everyone laughing.

To his nieces and nephews he was the legendary “Uncle Jimmy,” bringing fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories whenever he walked into a room.

Jim lived life boldly and on his own terms. His life was filled with adventure, friendship, humor, and love.

He is survived by his children Caitlyn Monsees (David) and Patrick Merkling (Nicole); his grandchildren Emberly Gray Monsees, Cora Sage Monsees, Macklyn Anne Merkling, Miley Marie Merkling, and soon-to-arrive Miller James Merkling; and his sisters Mary Linda McNiel, Madonna Merkling Nichols (Howard), and Jennifer Merkling (Bill).

He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond Joseph Merkling and Jeanne Gavel Merkling, his sister Christine Marie Merkling, and his brother-in-law John McNiel.

He is also remembered fondly by his former wife and the mother of his children, Charmaine Merkling, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Jim’s life will be held Friday, March 13 at 12:00 noon at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Woodstock, Georgia. A Celebration of Life will follow at Victoria Harbour Marina.

Friends and family are invited to remember Jim in the way he loved most—sharing stories, laughter, and a sunset with the people who matter most.

☘️May the road rise to meet you.May the wind be always at your back.May the sun shine warm upon your face.May the rain fall softly upon your fields.And until we meet again,May God hold you in the palm of His hand.