Robert Troy Merkal

Hard work builds character. -Robert Merkal

Obituary

Robert Troy Merkal, 82, of Boynton Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on August 27, 2025, with a smile on his face as he went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born on a farm in Catawissa, Pennsylvania, Robert was the fourth of five sons of the late Troy and Genevieve Merkal. He proudly served in the United States Navy, enlisting in October 1966 and serving aboard the USS Monrovia during the Vietnam War. He was honored with the National Defense Service Medal for his service.

After his military career, Robert earned a Civil Engineering degree from Auburn University and went on to own and operate his business for many years. He married Marion Helen Kerkel of Cleveland, Ohio, and together they built a life centered around faith, family, and adventure.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife Marion; his son John Merkal, his two daughters (Julie Sedwick and Lisa Kraemer) and two son-in-laws (Steve Sedwick and Spencer Kraemer); two granddaughters (Felicia Sedwick and Amelia Kraemer) and two grandsons (Stephen Sedwick and Nicholas Kraemer). He also leaves behind many cherished friends and extended family members.

Robert had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed camping, hiking, and exploring the mountains with his family. He was an avid gardener, known for growing a variety of fruits, vegetables, and orchids. In 2002, he and Marion moved to the Leisureville community, where they formed lasting friendships and enjoyed neighborhood walks, card games, and laughter-filled gatherings.

Robert was a light to the world! He was always there to lend a helping hand and uplift all those around him with his easy-going, carefree spirit. Even as his health declined, Robert remained active and engaged, sharing his love of plants and his wonderful sense of humor with those around him.

A memorial mass will be held on Friday, December 19 at 11:00 AM at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Boynton Beach, Florida. Burial with military honors will follow at 2:00 PM at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth.

The Merkal family thanks everyone for their kind thoughts and prayers during this time of remembrance.

Photo Gallery

Memory wall

Family tree

Troy Merkal

Genevieve Merkal 

Marion Merkal

 Dick Merkal

Dean Merkal

Lisa Kraemer

Children

Nicholas Kraemer

Amelia Kraemer

Julie Sedwick

Children

Felicia Sedwick

Stephen Sedwick

John Merkal

Ron Merkal 

Rex Merkal

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 Dick Merkal

Dean Merkal

Ron Merkal 

Rex Merkal

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Marion Merkal

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Lisa Kraemer

Nicholas Kraemer

Amelia Kraemer

Julie Sedwick

Felicia Sedwick

Stephen Sedwick

John Merkal

Robert Merkal

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