Gerald Frederick Merklinger Sr., of Elizabethtown, passed away surrounded by his loving family on September 5, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late William and Cecelia (Smith) Merklinger.

Gerald served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War, enlisting on November 23, 1953, and receiving an honorable discharge on October 31, 1955. A true patriot at heart, he became a lifetime member of the Cocalico Valley VFW Post 7376, the American Legion Post 0561, and the AmVets Post 136 in Ephrata, PA.

In addition to his military service, Gerald dedicated his professional life to the criminal justice system, working as a supervisor for the Stationary Engineering Department in the Corrections Department of the State of Pennsylvania. His commitment to justice and community extended throughout his career, as he proudly served as the Chief of Police of Honeybrook Township, a position that showcased his unwavering sense of duty and responsibility.

Gerald is survived by his beloved children: Albert Linton (husband of Donna), Carol Northeimer (wife of the late Woodrow Northeimer), Arthur Linton (husband of Valerie), Patricia Underwood (wife of John), Cecelia Pounder (wife of David) and Gerald Merklinger, Jr. (husband of Karen); his grandchildren: Sean and Joshua Linton, Gerald Northeimer, Travis and Adrieanne Underwood, David and Shane Pounder, Gerald Merklinger III, and Jennifer Rhoades; 6 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren as well as his brothers: Henry and Frederick Merklinger and sister: Margaret Prepost.

In addition to his parents, Gerald is preceded in death by his loving wife Mary Merklinger (2018) and his grandson Michael Northeimer (2025).

A graveside service will be held at Memory Gardens, 319 Wabash Road, Ephrata, PA, 17522, on Monday September 8, 2025 at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gerald's memory to Masonic Village, https://masonicvillages.org/donate-now/ as the family would like to gratefully acknowledge the staff for the loving care provided to Gerald during his years in their care.