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CHARLES MERKER Obituary
of Manhattan and East Quogue, NY, and formerly Scarsdale, NY, passed away on March 24. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, sons Lawrence (Lori) and Kevin (Danielle), his grandchildren, Hailey and Emma, brother, Edward Merker, M.D. (Laura), and sister Alice Merker Peters (Klaus, deceased). He was an ophthalmologist with a specialty in pediatric eye care, who greatly respected his patients and was equally respected by his colleagues. Trained at Mt. Sinai and Columbia Presbyterian Hospitals, he instructed physicians in ophthalmology training at Lenox Hill Hospital and was for many years Director of Pediatric Ophthalmology at St. Luke's/Roosevelt. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, March 28 at 1:00pm at Schwartz Bros. Memorial Chapel in Forest Hills.
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Memories and Condolences
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Brigitte Martel
March 23, 2024
Dr Merker performed a bilateral cataract surgery on my 3 month old son. He was my son´s ophthalmologist until he retired. He was professional, highly skilled and relatable. He saved my sons´ sight and I will always be grateful. I am sorry he had to leave this heart so early....
Crystal Sutherland
November 20, 2019
R.I.H. Dr. Merker. I will never forget you because you were a very special man who cared deeply for his patients!
Crystal Sutherland
November 20, 2019
Dr. Merker performed Strabismus surgery on me in 1985. I was only 5 years old and very afraid. I was crying so bad because I was extremely frightened. My mother said he put me on his lap while saying he wouldn't operate on me like that. I remember him talking to me calmly as he explained what would happen during and after surgery. He was my doctor until we moved from NY in 1989. He told my mother in the 80s about LASIK surgery & not to allow me to have it when it is first released but to wait until it's perfected. In my eyes, he was a genius when it came to vision. I just had cataract surgery which took me back to my childhood doctor/surgeon. Myself and my mother were very sad to see that he had passed. My condolences to his family. He was a great great man whom I will never forget!
Brigitte Martel
April 27, 2019
I was heartbroken when I saw that Dr. Merker had passed. We will never forget him because every time I see my son I am reminded that without Dr. Merker he would be blind today. I am forever grateful..RIP
Nancy Collazo
February 15, 2018
R.I.P
Nancy Collazo
February 15, 2018
Just learned about Dr Merker. I called to make an appt for my son who has been with him for some years now and thought I dialed the wrong number because the receptionist answered with a different name. She told me and I was in shock. My son is 14 now and I told him about Dr Merkers's passing. My son remembered how at first he did not like him because he would always give him a speech about school. My son was not doing his best at the time and I would tell Dr. Merker this. My son did not like that. I explained to him that It's nice to have a Dr. care about their patients. He gets it now. He died one month after seeing my son. Very sad. R.I.P
Lisa Rose
January 12, 2018
Words cannot express my extreme shock and sadness upon hearing this news. Dr. Merker was my first boss and he taught me so much about people and life in general. We lost touch through the years but I will always remember our great office staff and the wonderful laughs we shared. I just found out this news and I cant stop crying.
My condolences to your family
Lisa (Greene) Rose
ADRIENNE COFFMAN
November 16, 2017
I am beyond sad to hear about the passing of Dr. Charles Merker. I just learned of this when I decided to visit his office this past November 15th. I worked for Dr. Merker for many years, first as a receptionist and then as his bookkeeper with "manual books" many years ago. I worked in his office in Manhattan with a wonderful manager and two really fun colleagues. I also worked for in his office in Co-op City. Dr Merker was not only a gifted physician but he was a very special human being who cared for his patients and his employees welfare. He was kind enough to teach all of us ladies who worked for him back then everything about his practice, how to treat the patients, even how the machines worked. He cared about us and our families, as we cared about Marilyn and the Boys. One of my favorite memories is when Dr. Merker took his staff to a very fancy restaurant on Madison Ave in the city for thank you for job well done. I had NEVER been anywhere like that EVER. But that was Dr .Merker, a Brilliant Doctor and a kind person who was never pretentious.
My husband Jeff and I wish to express our deepest condolences to Mrs. Marilyn Merker and family.
Sincerely, Adrienne Coffman
Alison Rosow
October 17, 2017
I am so saddened to have just learned of Dr. Merker's passing. He was my doctor since I was 2 years old, for the past 40 years. He always opened with his warm, what's up, kiddo, and we would chit chat about life like old friends. He knew my whole family, and had even been to my parent's home. When his practice no longer accepted my insurance, he gave me an extremely reduced out of pocket fee, a fraction of the cost. He made nothing off of me but knew I wouldn't go elsewhere. I really wish I could have said goodbye. I feel like I lost a family member. I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Merker.
Jailene Mercedes
September 25, 2017
My family and I were patients of Dr. Charles Merker for years. I just learned of his passing when I tired to book an appointment today with him and learned of his passing. I was a patient of him ever since I was a little girl. Every visit he always put a smile on my face and asked how I was with my studies. Thank you for your professionalism, kindness, hilarious jokes and stories! It was a pleasure being your patient! My deepest condolences and sympathy to the Merker Family.
From your patients,
The Mercedes Family
Hedi White
September 13, 2017
I just learned with shock and sadness about Dr Merker's passing. He was my son's eye doctor from age 3--over 40 years ago! He became ours as well. I share the sentiments of everyone who has written here. We are so grateful for the care he gave us and enjoyed our "visits" at every appointment. What a loss. Deep condolences to his family.
Gandhi Family
September 9, 2017
I was deeply saddened to hear of this wonderful man's passing. My older son and I had both been his patients, and we looked forward to our visits every time. He would even want to go with me to my appointments, that's how much he loved Dr.Merker and his friendly manner. Thank you, Doctor, for your gentle demeanour, funny stories, and comforting care. You are missed; may your soul be blessed and your family's grief be soothed by the beautiful legacy of all the families you helped and all the hearts you touched. Rest In Peace.
Lillian Goldstone
August 1, 2017
I will always be grateful to Dr. Merker for his brilliant care of my son. We will always remember him as an incredibly intelligent & competent doctor, he was truly one of a kind.
And, it is with both love and respect that we extend our deepest sympathy to his family for their loss,
The Goldstone Family
Jeffrey Campbell
July 26, 2017
Dr. Merker took care of our daughter, Gweyneth, from age 2 until his passing. She had fairly severe Strabismus and Amblyopia and was a potential surgery candidate. Dr. Merker very calmly told us that if she patched her left eye as instructed she could avoid surgery and he was correct! Now she does not even have to wear glasses. Dr. Merker was one of the few doctor visits that we actually looked forward to and he told us a number of great stories along the way. In other words, he was both a great doctor and a great person, always a rare combination, and one that we will greatly miss but never forget.
Felicia Campbell
July 26, 2017
Dr. Merker,
We will miss you so much! Thank you for taking such good care of our daughter and helped her for 16 years. We wish we could have said good bye, rest in peace, you are a wonderful doctor and a wonderful person.
kevin merker
July 17, 2017
Words cannot describe the emotions I felt today reading all of your amazing stories about my father. The fact that all of you would take the time to write on here and tell your story has really touched me and my family. Deep breathing for sure...lots of tears.
Omar Khan
July 4, 2017
Thank you for being an amazing ophthalmologist. You were there to watch me and my twin Grow from age 2 till 24. You were such an inspiration and knew how to light up a crowd. Our visits were were always a pleasure. Thank you have been a part of our life's. With a reassuring smile. Rest peacefully.
peter Michalos MD
July 2, 2017
He was a competent ethical brilliant teacher who cured thousands from blindness .He was calm,kind and cool under pressure. I will always remember him.
Cornelia Narovici
June 18, 2017
Dr. Merker will be deeply missed. More than 20 years ago I took both my children to Dr. Merker for a regular checkup and I became his patient also. He was kind, compassionate and always sharing an inspiring thought. He will be in our thoughts always, Cornelia Narovici
Mary Lou Hall
June 13, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. Your husband/father/grandfather/sibling was a wonderfully gentle and intelligent, patient and empathetic doctor. I only just learned of his passing and will miss him greatly. My children, now parents themselves, were also fans as well as patients. He will be remembered with great warmth.
Nadine Brass
June 12, 2017
I brought my daughter to Dr Merker just before her first birthday, which was 36 years ago. He remained her Dr throughout her entire life, and was just as kind and caring in her adulthood as he was during her childhood. He did three different surgeries and he was amazing each time. We will remember him always, Nadine Brass
Amy (Brass) Pomponio
June 12, 2017
I am 37 years old and Dr. Merker took care of my eyes since the day I was born. I am so sad to hear of his passing and I am thankful for him every day. He was warm, respectful and so caring and genuine. He even held my hand for my last eye surgery in 2012. A great man who will always be remembered.
Frank Sandie
June 6, 2017
Dr. Merker was such a caring and great doctor. My daughter Madeleine Sandie was a patient of his since she was 3 years old. He performed three muscle surgeries on her as she grew into the women she is today, with perfect straight eyes.We will miss going into the city to see you. And every time we look into her beautiful eyes, we will think of you. Thank you Doctor Merker.
Lakshmi Ramanathan
June 5, 2017
Dr. Merker was a wonderful, caring, compassionate and excellent physician and above all, an extraordinary human being. I knew him for more than 30 years as his patient and colleague. He loved his family, work and his patients. We shared many laughs and our memories of him will always be special and unique.
I heard about his passing from a colleague. It was a real privelige to have hnown him. Sinceres condolences to the family. He was proud of all of you and adored the grandchildedren.
Joan Jacobs Brumberg
June 1, 2017
I just heard that Charlie is gone, via The Rochester Review. We grew up together in Mount Vernon and went to Camp Eagle Cove and UR. I always maintain an image of a smiling Charlie, about 16. He was smart, nice, and seemed close to Alice who I knew best. I am so sorry for you all. I would like to be in touch with Alice.
Michael Newton
May 27, 2017
Charlie was a friend and mentor for more than 40 years. I first worked with him when he was my chief resident at Mount Sinai. After I set up ophthalmology practice in Manhattan I was fortunate enough to assist him at surgery as he introduced the then new intraocular lens insertion technique into his practice. He assisted me in my earliest cases. His surgical confidence and expertise were enormously helpful in my learning this important new skill. Over many years Charlie helped my patients with complex strabismus problems. He freely gave of his time and considerable business talents on many occasions to help me with my practice management issues. Most of all, he had an endearing wit, and an irrepressible love for medicine and for his patients. He practiced the "old style" one-on-one care so hard to find these days. So it is doubly sad; the passing of a such a wonderful person and of the era of care he represents.
My deepest condolences to his family,
Jenna Gavigan
May 19, 2017
I am heartbroken and stunned to hear about Dr. Merker's passing. He was my doctor for almost twenty-five years and there was a time when I saw him every three months. He was always kind, diligent and caring. As a little girl, I felt safe with him during what could have been a very scary time. As a grown woman, visiting his office felt like going home.
My heart goes out the Merker Family. Please know that I will truly, truly miss him, and am so thankful to have known him.
Much Love,
Jenna Gavigan & Family
B. Marte
May 11, 2017
I was so upset to read of Dr. Merker's passing. He was my sons' opthamologist for over 17 years. He was extremely kind and knowledgeable and operated twice on one son's eye. I entrusted my most precious possession to him. My husband and i were also patients. I hope Dr. Merker's family will appreciate how very grateful we are to him for many years of service. I am deeply sorry for their loss.
Janice Oberman
May 4, 2017
Dr. Merker saved my son's eyesight in one eye by discovering that he had coat's disease at 9 years old. Usually, it goes undetected until the child is blind in one eye. I will be eternally grateful to him. My sincere condolences to the family.
Carol Perlman
April 25, 2017
We were greatly shocked and saddened when we heard of Dr. Merker's passing. We send our condolences to his family and friends.
We have been patients of Dr. Merker for over 30 years. Not only did we love Dr. Merker for the incredible care he provided, we very much enjoyed and looked forward to his humorous and extraordinarily witty conversations.
We will miss him very much!
The Perlman Family
Deane Beebe
April 20, 2017
So shocked and very sorry to hear about Dr. Merker's passing. He was a caring person and I enjoyed our conversations during my annual visit. RIP :(
Julia Ryan
April 13, 2017
Dr. Merker was our family's ophthalmologist for sixteen years and treated all of us with integrity, respect, and kindness. We were referred to him when my daughter was two and he diagnosed her with accommodative esotropia. He cajoled her through years of glasses and dilations making her treatment much less of a burden. Beyond what he did for my family, he juggled his schedule to immediately see a coworker of mine who complained one morning of not being able to see off to one side. He saw her at 11:00am and told her not to go back to work, then he called a colleague at Columbia, and by 5:00pm she was being treated for a stage 4 glioblastoma. I can never thank him enough for his kindness and competence that day. Dr. Merker will be solely missed by the Ryan family. Our heartfelt condolences to his wife and sons, who he clearly adored.
Cindy, Caroline and Stephen Chaplin
April 10, 2017
Recommended to Charles as the best in the business and he proved to be so. Kind and caring to patients and staff alike. As great an opthamologist as he was, he was also a model of how to command one's life. He seemed to love his work, clearly succeeded and when he retired he set a model for us all, gracefully switching more to family time and less to work but in a way to allow his patients to adjust and still benefit from his loving care. We will miss him sorely and send our sincerest condolences to Marilyn and the boys
Deena Schmitz
April 10, 2017
Dr. Merker was a kind, gentle, compassionate, competent human being who put his family first. That being said, he gave 100% to his patients as well.
He was "old school". He will be missed greatly.
Rest in peace!
djs
Joyceann & Joseph Greene
April 4, 2017
Dr. Merker was an incredible ophthalmologist. He was responsible for saving my vision on two separate occasions. My entire family including my close friends benefited from his extraordinary care. My heartfelt condolences to his family. With sympathy, J&J Greene
Yaffa Holmes
March 31, 2017
Dr. Merker was my doctor for 9 years and my favorite doctor. He was so kind, thoughtful and skilled. He will be missed. May his memory be a blessing.
March 30, 2017
Dr. Merker too loving care of me and my son. He was a wonderful doctor and kind human being. Condolences to his family.
Elizabeth Morton
March 30, 2017
Dr. Merker was the very best. I saw him a few weeks ago. His expertise and affable nature put me at ease. He was the only doctor I looked forward to seeing. He will be missed. My best to his family, co-workers and friends.
Richard Downing
March 29, 2017
Dr Merker was a very good man.
Our youngest daughter was born with an eye issue. My wife and I search the world to find help for our newborn.
I thank God everyday that we found this skilled doctor.
I handed my infant to his hands in the hospital where the surgery was performed. He knew how afraid I was and he took the time to reassure me. His kindness was sincere and got me through those next difficult hours.
The first weekend after the surgery he drove to our home in Connecticut. Not because we asked but because he cared.
For 26 years he has cared for our family and provided excellent care that has made my daughter's sight his goal.
I could never express how much I appreciate what he did for our daughter
I pray that Dr. Merker's family is comforted in this time with the knowledge that he made a difference in people's lives.
The Downing's will miss this good man but we celebrate a life that helped so many young lives.
Debra Davidson
March 28, 2017
Dear Marilyn, Larry & Kevin,
My condolences on the loss of such a wonderful man. I had the pleasure of knowing Charlie both professionally and as an extended family member. He was truly one of the good ones. A real mensch. May his memory be a blessing.
March 28, 2017
Dear Marilyn & family, we are very sad and shocked by Charlie's passing. Our hearts go out to all of you. Bob & Sue Hacker
Kitty Sprague
March 28, 2017
Dr. Merker was my eye doctor my whole life, and I'm so sorry to hear he's gone. I remember talking to him once about some other health/personal issues he wasn't treating me for that I was having and he was so incredibly understanding, down to earth, and easygoing. I'll always remember that. My best wishes to his family.
Joan (Brandi) Hart
March 28, 2017
My dearest friend and boss for 25 years - my heart cries for the loss of this fine man. He touched my life and that of my children in more ways than I can count. Thank you for being there always, my dear friend, how I shall miss you.
Eric Ober
March 27, 2017
A terrific doctor and a unique and wonderful man. He diagnosed my son's serious eye condition many years ago, leading to a very successful outcome. I also later beame his patient, as did my wife. From our entire "Dr. Merker family," our deepest sympathies and condolences. He was a great guy.
susan sutton
March 27, 2017
I first met Dr. Merker 23 years ago, when I brought my two-year-old son to see him. I have been there every year since then with him and my other four children. Dr. Merker was patient, funny, and wise. Aware of his competence and expertise, I always knew I could trust his opinions and advice. Hearing of his passing has left me and my kids with a deep sadness. We will miss him.
Minna & Mark Seitelman
March 27, 2017
We shall miss Dr. Merker. He was not only an excellent doctor, but he was a good man. May his memory be a blessing.
Ron and Kate McPhee
March 27, 2017
So sorry to hear of your loss. We trained a few horses for Charlie over the years and always liked him. He was always positive. You could tell that he really enjoyed his involvement with horse racing. Please accept our condolences. Ron and Kate McPhee
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