James E. Merkle Sr.

Jim was preceded in death by his beautiful wife of nearly 60 years Ruth Norma (Blaney) Merkle. He is survived by four children, Cathleen Marie Green (Paul), Jo Ann Duszkiewicz (Gary), Jan Elizabeth Merkle (Ed Bloom) and James Elliott Merkle, Jr. (Karen) and six grandchildren, Justin Garrett Walter, Mark Elliott Duszkiewicz, Dolan James Bloom, Patrick Reid Bloom, Eric James Merkle and Jennifer Elaine Merkle. Jim was the oldest of seven children and is survived by three siblings, Dale Gordon Merkle, Carole Jane Schmidt and Jon William Merkle.

In addition to his family, Jim's life was in part shaped by the Great Depression, serving in the Navy during WWII and his 42 years of work at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan. He loved to fish, garden, work with his hands (Jack of all trades), travel, hunt, bowl, play cards and dominos; most of all, he loved children, especially his grandchildren. For those who knew Jim, he was a generous and giving person - always willing to help. He believed in life long learning and working hard. He supported his brother, wife and four children as they pursued higher education.

His family will truly miss his presence. A memorial will be held later this year to celebrate his life. Appreciations for his life may be given to the Alzheimer's Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter, 310 N. Main, Suite100, Chelsea, MI 48118, or the Ingham County Medical Care and Rehabilitation Center, 3860 Dobie Road, Okemos, MI 48864, where he spent his last two years being cared for by the wonderful staff.

The family is being served by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing, MI.