Jack Thomas Merkle

Jack Merkle, 89, of Crofton, Maryland died January 26, 2018 at home, of congestive heart failure after a brief time under Hospice care for Alzheimer's.  He leaves his beloved wife, Stella (Gerus), daughter Melanie and brother Bob, of Columbus, Ohio.  Jack served 20 years in the US Navy, and went around the world on various ships many, many times.  Once he circumnavigated the globe three times in a row.  After leaving the service he went to work for the US Department of the Navy.  Upon retirement from the government, he volunteered at the Patuxent Wildlife Center, where he enjoyed teaching young people about nature.  He was an avid gardener who loved to help his wife in their garden.  They traveled extensively throughout Europe, meeting many locals and getting to know the customs and cultures through them.  He also enjoyed going to Hawaii.  A 60 year member of the Masons, he was a Past Master of Collington Lodge, a 32nd degree Mason, member of the Scottish Rite, and a Past Worthy Patron in the Eastern Start.  A memorial services will be held at Prince of Peace Church, 1657 Crofton Parkway Crofton, MD on Friday, February 2, 2018 at 11:00am.  In lieu of flowers please donate to the Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD, 21122.