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Jason Merkel Obituary
Jason B. Merkel, 25 years, of Allentown passed away Saturday, April 5, 2008, at home. Born in Allentown, he was the son of Brian E. and Carol A. (Roberts) Merkel. Jason was a 2000 graduate of Northern Lehigh High School. He was a chef and part owner of the restaurant Buca, Inc., Reading. He was a member of Lehigh Masonic Lodge 326, Trexlertown and was instrumental in forming the Dutch Mafia hockey team of Whitehall. He was of the Lutheran faith. Survivors: Parents; maternal grandmother, Viola Roberts of Allentown; paternal grandfather, Richard Merkel of Catasauqua; paternal grandmother, Anna Mae Cressman of Youngstown, Ohio; close friend, Caroline Andersen of Macungie. He was predeceased by two brothers, Brian Jr. and Daniel. Services: 11 a.m. Thursday, April 10, Keller Funeral Homes Inc., 1018 Church Street, Fogelsville, with the Rev. Donald W. Hayn officiating. Visitation 7-8:15 p.m. Wednesday. Masonic services at 8:15 p.m. Interment, Jordan Lutheran Cemetery, Orefield. Contributions: To Lehigh Masonic Lodge 326, c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 52, Fogelsville, 18051.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jason Merkel
Luis Candelaria
April 20, 2008
I had the pleasure of living with Jay for 7 years. Our bond was more than just a friendship it was more like family. Even when Jay moved home we still remained really good friends.We were always there for each other when trouble seemed to land in each others lap.Jason's memories will always live on as long as I am here. I will share his stories about our vacations, and all the good times we had. This alone will take a lifetime to tell. I love him like my own brother! Our cirlce of friends feel the same way. We had plenty of days/nights that we didn't want to end. Boy-they were such good times. He will be missed but not forgotten. Your best friend -Luis
Debbie Race (formerlly Ahner)
April 14, 2008
Dear Carol & Brian:
I am saddend to hear of your loss. I have just found out today and can not believe the news. My deapest sympathy to your entire family. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do for you. It has been many years, but you have always been on my mind and in my heart. I love you both.
Leigh Fahringer
April 14, 2008
Dear Carol,
I just learned of Jason's passing. My prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Jason lives forever in your heart and memories. God be with you and your family.
Joanne Madsen
April 14, 2008
Dear Carol and family - I was sorry to here the sad news about Jason. I will keep you all in my prayers
Roni Moyer
April 12, 2008
Dear Brian, Carol, and Viola:
I have just heard about Jason and my heart goes out to you. There is nothing I can say or do to ease the pain, but know I am thinking of you.
Jessica (Blose) Smoyer, Class of 2000
April 11, 2008
My deepest sympathy to Jason's family and friends... I am so sorry to hear about Jason. My thoughts and prayers will be forever with you. Jason was a wonderful person who had a generous heart. Jason's warm, big and beautiful smile will always be in my heart. He will be greatly missed.
Sarah Barnett
April 10, 2008
although i did not know Jason very well, he was great friends with my brother, Eric. i just remember when ever he would come to my house he would be so kind to everyone. he is in my thoughts and prayers, and so is his family.
Reinhard and Lori Hussmann
April 10, 2008
Dear Merkel Family,
We are truly sorry to hear of Jasons passing. We knew him through our boys who played hockey at Skate Away.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days to come.
Phill Hussmann
April 10, 2008
My deepest sympathy to all that knew Jason. I got to know him thru playing with and against Dutch Mafia. He was truly a great person and I am glad I got to know him. I am sorry I could not attend the services as I just found out today. Please know my thoughts are with his family and his many friends. We have truly lost a great person and even though his time on earth was short he managed to touch a lot of lives. "Merkel you will be miss and thank you for all the memories. Till I see you on the otherside...."
Amber
April 10, 2008
I heard about your loss from a freind, and just had to express my sympathy to you and your family. You are in my prayers and thoughts.
Duane, Michele, Donovan & Naomi Smith
April 10, 2008
We were shocked to hear of Jason's passing. Although we did not know him as well as the other guys, he was always a friendly smile at the hockey rink. It was always fun to play against him on Dutch Mafia or with him at other times when we needed an extra guy on our team. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all his friends during this grieving time. Just know he is in a better place and is now one of God's angels watching over us all. You will be missed Merkel.
Kathy Joyce
April 10, 2008
Carol & Brian, I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
J.P.W. Micheal Carter
April 10, 2008
Dear Brothers and love ones,
I find it in my heart to no that the Great Architech has called upon my brother. I send this poem to the family and all the friends to whom Jason B. Merkel ever known. As Brother Jason B. Merkel left us we all no he is indeed a true man of this world. He lived a very good life an shown to be one of the best in all our lives. So to all that are brother's to Jason B. Merkel please let those whom ask what this message in this poem means....
"Our Poor Brethren"
"Our poor and penniless brethren, dispersed over land and sea."
They met in the festive hall,
Lamps in their brightness shone,
And merry music and mirth,
Aided the feast of St. John.
Men pledged the health of their Queen
And of all the Royal band,
The flags of a thousand years,
The swords of their motherland.
Then mid the revelry came
The sound of a mournful strain,
Like a minor chord in music,
A sweet but sad refrain;
It rose on the heated air,
Like a mourner's earnest plea,
"Our poor and penniless brethren
Dispersed over land and sea."
Poor and penniless brethren
Scattered over the world,
Want and misfortune and woe
Round them fierce darts have hurled;
Wandering alone upon mountains,
Sick and fainting and cold,
Lying heart-broken in prisons,
Chained in an enemy's hold.
Dying in fields of combat,
With none to answer back
The masonic sign of distress,
Left on the battle's track.
Shipwrecked in foaming waters,
Clinging to broken spars,
Dying, this night of St. John,
Mid the ocean and the stars.
Others with hunger faint--we
Taste these rich and varied meats--
Oppression gives them no home
But dark and desolate streets.
Oh, God of mercy, hear us,
As we ask a boon for Thee,
For poor and penniless brethren
Dispersed over land and sea.
Poor and penniless brethren,
Ah, in the Master's sight,
We all lay claim to the title
On this, our festival night.
Lone pilgrims journeying on
Towards light that points above,
Treading the chequered earthworks
Till we reach the land of love.
Work up to the landmark, brothers,
We shall not always stay,
The falling shadows warn us
To work in the light of day.
How often our footsteps turn
Where a brother's form is hid,
Oft we cast evergreen sprigs
On a brother's coffin lid.
Thou, who dost give to each
Some appointed post to hold,
Teach us to cherish the weak,
To give Thy silver and gold;
To guard as a soldier guards
Honor and Love's pure shrine,
To give our lives for others,
As Thou did'st for us give Thine.
To Masons all over the world
Give wisdom to work aright,
That they may gather in peace
Their working tools at night.
May love's star glitter o'er each,
Amid darkness, storm or mist,
As on this night of St. John,
Our Blest Evangelist.
Blaine Flexer
April 10, 2008
Carol,
I am so sorry to hear about Jason. My deepest sympathies go out to you and Brian. For you two have had more hard times then anyone should have to experience. May the love of friends strenghten both of you.
Keith Stephens
April 10, 2008
I met your son at MCC this year though I only knew him for a short time we became friends.....I was shocked to hear of his passing my prayers go out to his family
Terry Hardiman
April 10, 2008
Dear Carol & Brian, I can only tell you
both, How deeply sorry I am on the passing of Jason. Remember the happy times you all shared, and
know that someday,you will all be together again.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Donna Langston
April 10, 2008
Carol,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family, hoping that all the well wishes of friends and family will help you get through the sad time.
Our prayers are with you as you grieve, and may all your fond memories ease your sorrow.
Gary Connors and Donna Langston
Peter Stoeckel Sr.
April 10, 2008
Dearest Carol and Brian,
My deepest feelings of sorrow are with you at this time when I heard about your loss.
Jason always was so uplifting in his presence and his smile always helped me smile through any situation.
I will remember him for the many times that Pete Jr. and him would play together at the Beers household always stirring up us older folks.
My prayers go out to you and may God's grace help you through this difficult time.
My love to you both!
Angie Reese
April 9, 2008
I'm still in disbelif that Jason is gone.
Jason was one of the nicest guys out there. Time & time again he went out of his way to help out not just me , but anyone who needed it, weather they were a friend or stranger. & he kept us laughing the entire time.
Jason was an old soul and I'll never forget him, his voice, his jokes, his sincerity, & everything he ever did for me.
His family has suffered more tradgedy than anyone should know and my thoughts & prayers are with them.
Alma Torres
April 9, 2008
To the parents of Jason, I Did not know Jason im sure we crossed paths beacuse my Son Daniel did know him ,through Hockey .My Deepest sympathy In the loss Of your child. Here's a little poem hopefully the words could comfort you in this time sorrow..Sincerly Alma Safely Home
I am home in Heaven, dear ones;
Oh, so happy and so bright!
There is perfect joy and beauty
In this everlasting light.
All the pain and suffering is over
Every restless tossing passed;
I am now at peace forever,
Safely home in Heaven at last.
Did you wonder I so calmly
Trod the valley of the shade?
Oh! but Jesus' love illumined
Every dark and fearful glade.
And he came Himself to meet me
In that way so hard to tread
And with Jesus' arm to lean on
Could I have one doubt or dread?
Then you must not grieve so sorely,
For I love you dearly still:
Try to look beyond earth's shadows,
Pray to trust our Father's will.
There is still work waiting for you,
So you must not idly stand;
Do it now, while life remaineth-
You shall rest in Jesus' land.
When that work is completed,
He will gently call you home;
Oh, the rapture of that meeting,
Oh, the joy to see you come!
Deb Knappenberger
April 9, 2008
I don't have any words that can express how I felt when I found out. Jason always had a big smile and a positive attitude no matter what. My prayers & thoughts go out to your family and may they somehow find the strength by remembering the happy times.
Rick McElroy
April 9, 2008
Brian and Carol,
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Linda Muzikar
April 9, 2008
Dear Richard,
We send our most sincere sympathy to you and your family. Please know that all of you are in our prayers.
Take Care!
Jules And Linda Muzikar
Mark Williams
April 9, 2008
It's tough to put into words everything Jason (always known as just Merkel) meant to me and our friends. My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends who will miss and always remember him.
Debbie Snyder
April 9, 2008
Richard,
Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Debbie and Sterling Snyder
(co-worker at Lanta)
Barbara Diehl
April 9, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Brian and Carol and Viola at this sad time of their lives. God only knows why we have to go through such hard times but know you are strong and will get through this.
James Murray / Chef, Buca di Beppo (Whitehall)
April 9, 2008
Dear friend,
You are loved by everyone you meet, ever so thoughtful, caring, and willing to help out a stranger as if they were a long time friend. Thank you for making my life easier with all your knowledge and help. You will be missed.
Our love and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jessica Pastorella
April 9, 2008
Dear Brian and Carol,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss.
I met Jason through my husband Bruce. Bruce and Jason met while they attended Kutztown University. After college they were roommates for years. Jason was a good friend. He will be deaply missed.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
shawn and maryellen mcanany
April 9, 2008
we areso sorry for your loss,jason was a fine and giving young man ,It was a real pleasure to have known him and have been a freindin my life.god bless
Lisa Hofelich
April 8, 2008
Jason was my neighbor for about 9 or 10 years, and if theirs one memory I'll always have, its spending the summer nights as kids pretending we were power rangers, or playing kick-ball in my front yard with the other neighbors, and every time I was up to kick, he'd always yell "move up!" I'll never forget the time either, on my backyard swing set, Jason told me if I got a garbage bag and jumped off the top deck, I'd be able to parachute. I tried, but needless to say, I just landed hard on my feet. Even looking back, as a kid, Jason was full of life and always had a smile on his face. Though it's been about six years since I've spoken to Jason last, I'm at a loss for words and can't express enough how tragic this is. Brian and Carol, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lucas & Nicole Yezik
April 8, 2008
The Merkel Family,
Our deepest sympathies during this trying time.
Jason,
We'll miss you and we are lucky to have known you.
Sending our thoughts and prayers,
Ruth Oswald
April 8, 2008
Brian and Carol We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Lucy Hampton
April 8, 2008
Although I do not know any of this family. My father comes from Merkel's and I just wanted to extend my deepest sympthies on the loss of such a young life.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Lucy H
Chet & Ginger ConcernedParents
April 8, 2008
We are sorry for your loss of your son. Perhaps these two poems will help ease your pain a little:
I'll Lend You My Child
I'll lend you for a little time a child of mine, He said.
For you to love - while he lives
And mourn for when he's dead.
It may be six or seven years
Or twenty-two or three
But will you, till i call him back,
Take care of him for me ?
He'll bring his smiles to gladden you,
And should this stay be brief
You'll have his lovely memories as solace for your grief.
I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn.
I've looked this world over
In search for teachers true,
And from the throngs that crowd
Life's lanes, I have selected you.
Now will you give him all your love,
Nor count the labor vain,
Nor hate me when I come to call to
Take him back again?
I fancied that I heard then say,
Dear Lord, Thy will be done,
For all the joy Thy child shall bring,
The risk of grief we'll run.
We'll shelter him with tenderness,
We'll love him while we may,
And for the happiness we've known
Forever grateful stay.
But should the Angels call for him
Much sooner than we've planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that came
And try to understand.
AND
The Broken Chain
We little knew that morning that God was going to call your name, In life we loved you dearly,in death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone. For part of us went with you, the day God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide, And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.
Lindsay Meyers
April 8, 2008
Jason was a wonderful, kind you man. Always put a smile on my face. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends
Angela Sahli
April 8, 2008
Dear Brian and Carol,
There are no words to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Certain people and places are carried in our memory forever, and Jason is one of those people. I pray that you find courage and strength in your love for each other and arrive at a place of peace and understanding.
My Love & Prayers Always,
Angie
Tracey Hildebrand(Sherman)
April 8, 2008
Brian and Carol
I am so sorry about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. If you need anything please feel free to call me.
Wanda Crocker
April 8, 2008
Carol...
It has been a long time since Clover... I am so sorry to hear about your loss and all you have been through... I will keep you and your family in my prayers...
Edmund Healy, Esquire
April 8, 2008
Brian, Carol, and Caroline: As you know, I am lacking words to express the depth of my surprise and sadness. Jason was a wonderful young man whose happy demeanor and spirit touched me (and probably everyone he met). His path to a long life was cut far too short for no apparent good reason. He will be missed.
Eric Barnett
April 8, 2008
Jason and I go way back and we got into a lot of trouble together, but man did we have fun. I can't express how much I miss him. All I know is that I will never ever forget him and the great times we shared.
Tammy Koch
April 8, 2008
Dear Brian & Carol,
We cannot tell you how sorry we are to hear about your lose. I cannot even imagine what you must be going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.
~Betty Roberts, Tammy, Michael & Charlotte Koch
Darryl Miller
April 8, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Jake Bower
April 8, 2008
From school to the dreaded after school football practices, Jason always came in character. Only person I knew to carry a smile and laughter where ever he went. My prayers to the friends and family.
Jill & Larry Hontz
April 8, 2008
Dear Carol and Brian,
We do not have the words to express our sadness. You have had to endure so much in this lifetime. Please know that you are on our minds and in our prayers. Call if you need absolutely anything.
Love,
Jill and Larry
Brandon Batarick
April 8, 2008
My deepest sympathies to his family and Caroline.
Amber (Budraitis) Kinney
April 8, 2008
I haven't seen Jason in many years but we dated in high school and worked together at Kings. He was a great guy and I remember him as extremely fun to be around. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
justin herzog
April 8, 2008
I am deeply shocked and saddened in the passing of Jason. I'll never forget all the good times having spent with you. My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Shane Dorward
April 8, 2008
Since my graduation from Northern Lehigh High School, my adventures have taken me far and wide from my hometown in which I was raised as a child. I've always kept near and dear the memories of my childhood regardless of my proximity to my hometown. I consider myself blessed to have Jason as part of my most cherished childhood memories. My deepest regards to the surviving family.
Tia Mazy
April 8, 2008
Jason was a wonderful guy and will be missed greatly by anyone who was graced with his presense. His smile was amazing and would light up anyone's day!
Stephanie Williams
April 8, 2008
I want to extend my deepest condolences to Jason's parents, who have had to endure more than any parent should in their lifetime. I'm so sorry for your loss and please know that you are in my prayers. I met Jason almost 4 years ago when I started dating my husband, Brett. Even though I was the new girl, Jason immediately made me feel like I had always been a part of the group. I will always remember the surprise birthday party Caroline and I threw for Jason last year. He stopped by our house after work to "hang out" and while he was up in the guest bathroom showering, we pulled out the birthday cake, lit the candles, and filled the kitchen with balloons. I'll never forget how surprised he was and how happy he looked when he came downstairs to find out that everyone was there for him.
He was sweet, generous, accepting, hilarious, and a person who would do anything for his friends. Jason- I'll miss your smile, your big bear hugs, and your infectious laugh. Thank you for being my friend. I'll miss you always.
Scott Merkel
April 8, 2008
One of the first memories that came
to mind of Jason was a photo from
our Nana Merkel showing a pint -sized "Superfly Jimmy Snuka"
jumping mid-air on to her lap. Sorry
I can't find the picture, but it was
a good one! Jason was always a
smiling and good kid (in the typical
Merkel fashion!) for the few times I had the opportunity of being around him.
For Brian, Carol & Uncle Richard
I wish I could find the right words to
console you. Hopefully, this one fond
memory helps. Even though we could
not be there in body, we're here in
spirit for you. Speaking for all of us
here in The Smoky Mountains and in
Florida, the rest of the family sends
our most sincere thoughts and con-
dolensces. Love you all.
Sue D'Angelo
April 8, 2008
I have known Jason for sometime now. We have been through a lot together and I was there many of times for him. I known one thing for sure..when Jason was around in most cases he would always be smiling and make you laugh. Now it's his turn to smile and have internal peace. May his presence in our hearts and minds give us strength and allow us to share his love with all of his family and friends at this time. He will be missed by all of us here in Reading! Forever in my heart and prayers-
Gina,JoLynn,Tony
April 8, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Tom Zeiser and Nicole Ripper
April 8, 2008
No one can forget his contagious laughter and lively character. He was a great friend with a huge heart. He would always be there to do anything for anyone. We will truly miss him. His family is in our prayers. We love you, Merkel.
Jennifer Lagler
April 8, 2008
Jason will be truly missed. He was a great guy and a wonderful family friend. Our prayers and thought are with the Merkel family. Brian & Carol and Sis if you need anything please let all of us know, we are all here for you. God bless you.
The Lagler's,
Clark,Fay,Troy,Casey,Todd,Jennifer,Wendy
Sandy Angstadt
April 8, 2008
Jason always had a smile & was willing help out in any way he could ..... a genuinely nice guy who will remain in my heart. My deepest sympathies to his family & friends. You're in my prayers.
Christie Schirmacher
April 8, 2008
Although I didn't know Jason too well, he was apart of my family. From what I hear he is a very wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with his mother and our family.
No matter the distance, Love Always.
Michelle Reilly
April 8, 2008
Jason meant so much to my best friend Caroline and to her and Jason's family I sympathize greatly. Jason will be deeply missed and I will not forget that smiling face and wonderful sense of humor.
Josh Roderick and Jody Hunzer
April 8, 2008
The best guy ever, are the only words to describe Merkel, we will miss him in many ways,.. our deepest sympathy to his family, our thoughts are with you at this time.
Andrew Kern
April 8, 2008
I was good friends with Jason in both high school and college and I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was a great guy with an even greater sense of humor; I can't think of my senior year at Northern Lehigh without recalling fond memories of him. He approached every situation with a positive attitude and a big smile and he was always willing to help out his friends. I will forever remember Jason as a person who truly embraced life and strived to make the best of it. My deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends, and anyone else who had the pleasure of meeting him.
Brett Williams
April 8, 2008
I will miss you more than i can say
Jennifer Frohnheiser
April 8, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Jason. He was one of the nicer guys and had alot of goodtimes at school. I will not forget about him. My prayers go out to his friends and family.
Dale Shellhammer
April 8, 2008
I am so very sorry to hear about Jason. It's just not right. If you need anything, just ask.
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