L. Merkel

L. Jacob Merkel, "Jakey"쳌 87, of Slatington, passed away February 20, 2014 in his home. He was the husband of the late Lorraine E. (Rehrig) Merkel, who passed away in 2006. Born in Slatington, he was the son of the late Myron & Pearl (Borgert) Merkel. Jacob worked at the Lehigh Valley Dairy as a maintenance mechanic for many years before retiring. He was also a former furrier and farmer. He was a volunteer at the Northern Lehigh Food Band, a member of the Lions Club and past chief and president of the Friedens Fire Co. Jacob was honored in 2006 as the longest active living volunteer firefighter in the United States. He enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing and sitting on the porch of his cabin in Potter County, sipping his old Granddad. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Survivors: Sons, Jed J. & wife Lori Merkel, Joel J. Merkel & companion Annette all of Slatington, seven grandchildren, three great grandchildren, brothers, Abner & wife Jane Merkel of Bethlehem, Arthur & wife Helen Merkel and Hans & wife Sylvia Merkel, all of Slatington, sisters, Madeline Seidel and Maryann Merkel of Allentown. He was predeceased by a son, Jay J. Merkel in 1977 and a granddaughter, Amanda Mack in 2003, brother, Henry Merkel and sister, Miriam Follwieler.

Services: 11:00am, Saturday, March 1, 2014 at Harding Funeral Home, 25-27 N. Second St., Slatington, PA 18080. Calling hour 10-11:00am at the funeral home. Fire Fighters last call service to follow at Friedens Fire Compnay.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers to the Friedens Fire Co., 3158 Friedens Rd., Slatington, PA 18080.

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