Raymond A. Merkel

Raymond A. Merkel, 83 of Leland, IL passed away Saturday, August 16, 2008 at his home. He was born August 21, 1924 in Yorkville, IL, the son of Albert C. and Esther W. (Moenkemeier) Merkel. He married Ethel Catherine Cook on March 7, 1948 in Somonauk and they recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. He graduated from Yorkville High School and farmed his entire life in the Leland area until his death. He was a lifetime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, where he was an active participant. He was a church council member for many years, having the office of treasurer for ten years. He also taught Sunday School and was Sunday School Superintendent for thirty-five years.

Raymond was active in his community, having the office of Victor Township Supervisor from 1974 until his death. He was a member of the Leland School Board for sixteen years, serving as both Secretary and President during his term. Raymond was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) for many years and enjoyed attending the annual EAA fly-in in Oshkosh, WI. He was also a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Tri-County Board of Realtors, Dekalb County Farm Bureau and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.

He is survived by his wife, Ethel "Cathy" Merkel of Leland; three son's, Robert (Patty) Merkel of Madison, WI, Roger (Doy) Merkel of Stillwater, OK and Ronald (Wendy) Merkel of Somonauk, two daughters, Linda (Thomas) Maley of Geneva and Carol (Gary) Lane of Earlville; ten grandchildren, Christina (Michael) Metzdorf, Kyle and Ashley Lane, Elise, Indah, Rayna, Lela, Courtney, Caitlyn and Rylie Merkel and one sister, Alice Merkel of Mendota.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Forrest Merkel.