Thomas H. Merkle, 86, of Landisville, PA, passed away on August 11, 2014 at Oak Leaf Manor. He was born in Flushing, NY. He lived on Long Island for 65 years then retired to Florida in 1994 with his wife, Gloria. After his wife's passing, Tom lived in several states with his family before settling in Lancaster County, PA.

Tom was an Honorary Life Member for 50+ years of the Knights of Columbus (Hempstead, NY #1241, Levittown, NY #3591, Lancaster, PA #6810). He served in the NY State Guard 1943-1944 and the U.S. Army 1945-1946 as a Staff Sgt. Tom was a 25 year member of "The Old Breed Rifle & Pistol Club" Marine Headquarters in Garden City, NY. He was a member of the Citizens On Patrol at the Palm Beach County sheriff's office.

After 35 years of service with Winsor & Newton Inc., "a fine British company", he retired in 1992.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria L. (Cestaro) Merkle, of 49 years and mother of his seven children.

The surviving children are: Kenneth Merkle, (the late Barbara) of Levittown, NY, Thomas Merkle (Gail) (the late Barbara) of Baltimore, MD, Brian Merkle (Diane) of Wantagh, NY, Paul Merkle (Grace) of N. Bellmore, NY, Lillian Merkle of Lancaster, PA, Frances Carlino (John) of Saugus, MA, Jennifer Wahl (Richard) of Landisville, PA and Sheri Hinkley of Lancaster, PA; 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Service will be held on Long Island, NY. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.