Richard Lee Merkle left this earthly world to be with his Master on January 5, 2015. He was born May 27, 1931 to Albert and Dahlly Merkle in Mulhall, Oklahoma. Richard was the youngest of eight children.
After serving in the army, he met his loving wife, Dorothy Merkle (Burns), while attending the same church in Guthrie, Oklahoma. They were wed on August 14, 1955. They would shortly thereafter leave to attend college at LeTourneau University in Longview TX, where he received his degree in electrical engineering.
After college he received his first job working for Philco Ford, which would move him and his family to Philadelphia, PA and later to Colorado Springs, CO where he spent the remainder of his life.
Richard and Dorothy were married for 59 years. He was a very devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife Dorothy, and three children; Roy Merkle, Michele Morga, and Timothy Merkle. He is also survived by eight grandchildren; Ben Romberger, Breck and Candice Merkle, Zachary and Jennifer Romberger, Anthony Merkle, Taylor Merkle, Stephan Heuber, Marica Cimino, and Gabby Heltzel. Also, he leaves behind six great-grandchildren; Bradic Romberger, Cynthia Merkle, Kamden Romberger, Judson Merkle, Chloe Merkle and one on the way, Elijah Merkle.
In lieu of flowers the family would like any donations to be made to: International Mission Board (IMB) 3806 Monument Avenue, P.O. Box 6767, Richmond, VA 23230-0767, Memo line: Merkle- 928303.