WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Dr. Joseph R. Merkel, age 100, of Sturgis, passed away Saturday evening, November 29, 2025, at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis.
Joseph was born on December 21, 1924 in Alburtis, Pennsylvania, son of the late Adam L. and Mary (Krasulick) Merkel. He resided in Sturgis since 2012, coming from Leo, Indiana.
He was a graduate of Emmaus High School with the class of 1936 and furthered his education at Moravian College earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1948, Purdue University earning a Master of Science degree in 1950, PhD at University of Maryland in 1952, and postdoctoral work at Rutgers University.
On December 24, 1948, he married the love of his life, Rachel M. Reifinger at Huff’s Union Church, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania.
He retired in 1990 from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania following 28 years of dedicated service to his students as a professor.
Dr. Merkel was a member of Salem United Church of Christ in Fort Wayne. He also held memberships in the American Chemical Society, American Society for Microbiology and American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Joseph was proud to have served his country in the United States Army during WWII earning the rank of Corporal.
He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of nearly 77 years: Rachel; son: Glenn (Eva) Merkel of Key Largo, Florida; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Mildred Hemphill; brothers: William A. Merkel, Paul Merkel, and Thomas Merkel.
In honoring his wishes cremation has taken place. Private burial of the remains will take place at Sturgis Memorial Gardens.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
Memorials donations would be appreciated to Huff’s Union Church, 540 Conrad Road, Alburtis, PA 18011.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamiltfuneralhomes.com.
