Joseph E. Merkel

It is with heavy hearts we announce his passing on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at age 92. He was surrounded at home by family and love he gave so much throughout his life.

Survived by his wife of 65 years, Yvonne "Bonnie" (Trabold); children, Kathleen (John Hensberry) Herbst, Gerald Merkel, Dr. Paul (Lori) Merkel, Robert (Bonnie) Merkel, Dr. Linda (Betsy Hendrick) Merkel; grandchildren, Dana (Gary) Payne, Stephanie (Jonathan Bernier) Herbst, Christopher (Kelly) Merkel, Jessica (Steve) Hatfield, Dr. Andrew (Laura Gardon) Merkel, Dr. Amanda (Matthew) Lombardozzi, Jacob Merkel, Dr. Zachary (Dr. Janie Staravecka) Merkel, Joshua Merkel, Caitlyn (J.P.) Vitello, Michael (Greer McIntyre) Hawkins, Robert (Rachael) Hawkins; great-grandchildren, Caden, Carter, Tenley Payne; Rylan, Adaline Bernier; Cora, Oakley, Eliza Hatfield; Lucas, Jude, Thomas Merkel; Cameron, Emerson Lombardozzi; Josephine Merkel; Annabelle Vitello; Willa, Walter Hawkins; Thea, Lillian, Calvin, Kendall Hawkins.

Predeceased by his parents, William and Cora (Deitz) Merkel; brothers, Howard, William (Christine), Alfred; sisters, Connie (Robert) Skipworth, Corrine (James) Barnett, Florence Birecree, Dorothy(Fred) Loewke.

He had a 25 year career at Xerox as a manager Latin-American group where he retired early. He then held many jobs and took on renovating apartments in the city with his sons. He was an active volunteer member at St. Thomas the Apostle Church.

He had many hobbies including Boy Scout leader, hunting and fishing with his sons, golfing, tennis, softball, sailing, water and snow skiing until 80 years old, swimming in his backyard pool, family clambakes and camping at Fish Creek Pond for 50 years.

He knew and sang many songs especially in the car and always around the family campfires where he sometimes was told quiet hours began a few hours earlier.

He lived a life filled with kindness, generosity, laughter and love for his family. He will be greatly missed but live forever in our hearts.

Joseph's Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 21st at 10AM at Spiritus Christi Church, 121 Fitzhugh St.

Private Internment in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery at Angel of Peace.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to UR Hospice Medicine in Monroe County, Spiritus Christi Church or your favorite charity in his memory.