Charles "Steve" Merkle, 53, of Kalkaska passed away on Sun, Nov 23, 2003, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.
He was born on Apr 17, 1950, in Bellaire, the son of Charles and Elise (DePeel) Merkle.
Steve married Lea Stachowiak on Dec 27, 1983, in Centerville. They moved to Kalkaska in 1996 from White Pigeon. Steve liked CB radios, repairing old televisions, fishing, camping, pool, driving, and weight lifting. He was the diplomat. Steve was a member of Spencer Church of Christ.
Steve is survived by his wife, Lea; his children, Charles David Kilpatrick of Constantine, Katie Lynn Smith of South Bend, IN, Steven Dale Merkle of OK, Adam Wayne Merkle of Kalkaska, and Forrest Merrill Stachowiak, Lorrenn Terrill Stochowiak and Brena Mae Merkle, all of Kalkaska; one grandchild, his brothers and sisters, David Merkle of Battle Creek, Sharon Merkle and Carol Tullos of Cadillac, Judy Brown of Sturgis, James Merkle of Cadillac and Beverly Merkle of Three Rivers, and many nieces and nephews.
The funeral service was held Nov 26 at Wolfe Funeral Home.
Interment was at Lodi Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Lea A. Merkle.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe Funeral Home, Kalkaska.
