Craig N. Merkel Sr., 78, of Whitehall, died Jan. 13, 2020. He was the husband of the late Bonnie Merkel for 53 years.

He was in the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1964 aboard the Kenneth E. Bailey DD/DDR #713-IC-3.

He was a member of the Whitehall Lions Club, the Fullerton American Legion Post 367 and the Fullerton Fire Company No. 1.

He is survived by a daughter, Jessie and her husband Jim; a son, Craig Jr. and his wife Tina; a daughter Stephanie and her husband Bill; five grandchildren Megan, Ashley, Brittini, Buddy and Alexis; four great-grandchildren, Aiden, Kolton, Blake and John; and two expected blessings, Bonnie and Raylyn.

Contributions may be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ, Fullerton, 575 Grape St., Whitehall, 18052.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home Inc., Whitehall.