Dorothy Ann Merkle (Burns) went to be with her Lord and Savior suddenly on April 3, 2023. She was born January 23, 1936, to Emma and Roy Burns in Guthrie, Oklahoma. She met her loving husband Richard Merkle while attending the same church. They were wed on August 14, 1955, and Dorothy would remain a devoted wife for 59 years to Richard, until his death in 2015.
Together, they moved to Longview, Texas for Richard to attend college. They then moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and later to Colorado Springs, Colorado where Dorothy spent the remainder of her life. With Dorothy’s unwavering dedication to her Lord and His commandment to love – she significantly impacted the lives of many. She loved and cared fully for her family, friends, neighbors, and the many children who attended her day care service. Although the hearts of those she touched are fuller for knowing her, she will forever be missed by those she knew.
Dorothy was a very devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard Merkle, and one grandchild, Ben Romberger.
She is survived by her three children: Roy Merkle (and Rick), Michele Morga, and Timothy Merkle (and Tonya). She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Breck Merkle (and Candice), Zachary Romberger (and Jennifer), Anthony Merkle, Taylor Merkle, Stephan Heuber, Marissa Cimino, and Gabby Heltzel. Also, she leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Bradic Romberger, Cynthia Merkle, Kamden Romberger, Judson Merkle, Chloe Merkle and Elijah Merkle.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Shrine of Remembrance, 1730 E. Fountain Blvd., Thursday, April 13th at 10am.
