John W. Merkle

John W. Merkle, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on August 18, 2025, at the age of 77.

He was born on November 13, 1947, in Ridgewood, NY, to the late John and Louise (Breiner) Merkle, and was one of three children.

In 1969, John married the love of his life, Nancy (Prinz) Merkle. Together they shared more than five decades of love, laughter, and partnership until Nancy's passing in 2023. They raised their twin sons, Chris and Scott, in Exeter, NH, creating a home full of warmth and support, and plenty of hockey gear in the barn.

John was a talented architect and a proud cofounder of TMS Architects in 1984. He had a passion for historical preservation and the firm has received numerous awards for renovations of historic sites throughout New England. But what mattered most to John was not the buildings themselves, it was the people he built them with. He had a way of making everyone feel like family, and he loved to mentor aspiring architects offering encouragement, guidance, and laughs along the way.

Outside of work, John loved being outdoors and with his family and friends. Whether it was a quiet morning with a fly rod in hand or an afternoon cheering at a rink or fields, he found his greatest joy in life's simplest moments, particularly those involving his grandkids.

John's greatest pride was his family and the memories he and Nancy created together-memories filled with love, laughter, and a little mischief that will live on forever.

He is survived by his sons and wives, Chris and Kristin, Scott and Lexy, his beloved grandchildren (Kaley, Connor, Kendall, Max, and Scarlet), and his sisters, Kathy Parrett and Lynn Ruvolo, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 27, from 10 am - 1 pm at Brewitt Funeral Home, 14 Pine Street, Exeter, NH.

In lieu of flowers John would be honored for donations in his name to the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance.