Michael D. Merkel

WASHINGTON?Michael D. Merkel, 51, of Washington, died suddenly Wednesday morning, April 2, 2014 while on the job in Noblesville, Indiana. Mike was born on January 3, 1963 in Peoria to Delmar and Marilyn (Doerr) Merkel. He is survived by his parents, of Washington; one daughter, Tessa Merkel of Washington; one sister, Lisa (Ken) Snow of Peoria; one brother, Steve Merkel of Peoria; his longtime friend and companion, Lori Walker, her children, Melissa Schore and Nick (Allison)Sturgis and Lori?s grandchildren, Aidan and Skylar. Mike was a job foreman for Commercial Irrigation out of East Peoria where he had worked for 25 years. He was a graduate of Washington Community High School and earned an associate?s degree from Illinois Central College in mechanical engineering. He was a member of Operating Engineers Local 150. Mike was a devoted father, uncle, son and brother who loved his family dearly and he enjoyed playing chess at every opportunity. A celebration of Mike?s life will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at Mason-White Funeral Home with Father Stephen Willard officiating. Burial will follow in Springdale Cemetery in Peoria. Visitation will be at the funeral home in Washington on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and one hour prior to services on Saturday. Memorials for Mike may be directed to St. Jude Midwest Affiliate or any charity of the donor?s choice.