Joseph Henry Merkle, 82, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 7, 2023, with his loving family by his side.
Joseph was born in New York City, NY on August 13, 1940. He was a Graduate of St. John’s Prep, Brooklyn, NY. Joseph received a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Polytechnic Institute of New York, a Master of Science degree in Metallurgy and Material Science from Lehigh University, and a Master in Business Administration from Farleigh Dickenson University.
Joseph was employed for over 40 years in the Bell System, starting as an Engineer, and retiring as a Liaison in Europe, Middle East, and Africa for Emerging Markets.
Always committed to family, he enjoyed spending his free time with his wife, family and friends, playing golf, tinkering on cars, boats, and volunteering in his church and community. Joseph was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a 4th Degree Knight, Holy Name Society, a Eucharistic Minister, and a volunteer for Caregivers, as well as Simon’s Kitchen.
Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Henry Merkle. He is survived by his wife, Adele (Boschetto) Merkle of Ocean Beach, NJ, his sons; Robert (Timi Aguilar) Merkle of Castle Pines, CO, and Thomas (Maureen) Merkle of Annandale, NJ. Joseph was the grandfather of Analissa, Timothy, Michael of Colorado, and Brendan, Colin, and Devin of New Jersey.
He is also survived by his sisters Kathryn and her husband Joseph of Ocala, FL, Maureen of New York, and sister-in-law Dorothy Gili and her husband Ronald of Florida, as well as a wealth of loving nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Mass and reception celebrating Joseph’s life will be held on Saturday May 27, 2023 10am at St. Pio of Pietrelcina Church, Lavallette, NJ. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Simon’s Kitchen, P.O. Box 551, Seaside Park, NJ 08752 in his name.
