James J. Merkl

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True strength lies not just in power, but in care, compassion, and connection, carrying essential truths and guiding wisdom. We hold onto knowledge and lessons from experience that honor tradition, respect, and enduring bonds. James J. Merkel was a funny guy with a hallmark, signature laugh. He was loyal and kind. He held onto and shared the stories that have made him who he is.

The elephant’s graveyard is less a place of stone and soil and more a place of memory, and it endures in the quiet. It is a place of memory, vast and unforgetting. The weight of loss is only matched by the depth of love. During the very early morning hours of a beautiful fall morning, we handed Jim over from our time to eternity from Samaritan Hospice in Voorhees. One day, we will know how lucky we were to have known his love with wonder, not grief.

Jim was born during the spring of ‘44, in our nation’s cradle, Philadelphia, PA. His home had contributed to the manpower of our great nation, upholding the ideals of our American freedoms, serving during Vietnam in the United States Marine Corps. Jim made his career at Melitta Coffee in Cherry Hill and spent his working years there as a mechanic. At home, he enjoyed his beer and cheered on the Eagles, “Go Birds”!

Jim leaves to cherish his memory, his doting and loving wife of 32 years, Bach “Snow” Merkel. Mr. Merkel was predeceased by his son, Jeffrey. He is survived and will be sadly missed by his children, Daniel Merkl and Allison Hemingway. He is also survived by: Myle Awad, My Chi Shaffer, Harry K. Brown, III, and Michael E. Brown.

Relatives, friends, and neighbors are invited to gather with the Merkl family. We’ll come together to pay tribute to valor, honor, and service, cheer on the birds, and take comfort in each other on Saturday morning between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm at Creran Celebration Etherington & Creran Funeral Homes, 400 White Horse Pike, Oaklyn With reflection and remembrances to follow, during which those who wish to speak and share memories are welcome at 12:00 pm.

#crerancelebration #heartfelt

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