Wilton "Rod" Merck

Mr. Merck, 82, of Charlotte, NC passed away on Thursday, February 14, 2013. He was born on October 7, 1930, in Greenville, SC to the late Rufus and Lois Merck.

Rod retired from the US Air Force in 1972 after a distinguished 22-year career of managing golf courses and NCO clubs. Tours of duty included New Zealand, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. After serving his country, Rod’s civilian career included the general management of Slug’s Choice restaurant at South Park, and he was both a member and manager at Cedar Wood Country Club for over thirty years, where Rod enjoyed his love of the game of golf. Rod was an avid sports fan.

He was preceded in death by his brother Leroy “Shorty” Merck.

Rod is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Yvonne Smith Merck; his children, Steve (Janice) Merck of Houston, TX; Donna Merck and Tammy Merck, his sister, Mildred Shaver of Greenville, SC; his sister-in-law Faye Merck of Greenville, SC. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Jessica D’Ambrosio, Brian and Wesley Merck and one great grandson Daniel D’Ambrosio.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013 at McEwen Pineville Chapel 10500 Park Rd. Charlotte, where the family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care 1420 East 7th St. Charlotte, NC 28204