Gerhardt Merkel, age 89, passed away peacefully at home the morning of August 12, 2014. Gerhardt was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 9, 1925, to William Paul Gerhardt Merkel & Pearl Eck Merkel. Gerhardt served in the U.S. Coast Guard & was a combat veteran 3/19/43 - 5/23/46. He worked at Westinghouse for 15 years as a machinist. In 1966, Gerhardt left to take over the family business & was president of Henry Merkel, Inc., where he worked until he retired in 1987. He was preceded in death by his wife Magdalene Merkel & his sister Katherine Davis. Gerhardt is survived by his 3 sons: Kurt, Wayne, & Paul. He is also survived by his 2 daughters-in-law: Susan & Darlene, 4 grandchildren: Kristen, Matthew, Jaclyn, & Michelle, & 4 great grandchildren. Gerhardt is fondly remembered by family & friends as a loving father, caring grandfather & great grandfather, avid gardener, member of the VFW, proud patriot & veteran, & reveler of Jack Daniels. Gerhardt was surly; he stuck to his guns, spoke his mind, & always made us laugh. He will be truly missed. No services will be held. Memorial contributions are welcome & should be mailed to Gilchrist Hospice Care, 11311 McCormick Road, Suite 350, Hunt Valley, MD 21931.
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Published in Baltimore Sun on Aug. 15, 2014
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