Anton William 'Bill' Merkl

Anton “Bill” William Merkl

After 82 years and 2 days, heaven and his beautiful wife, Carole, welcomed our sweet dad and grandpa home. Bill passed away after a courageous 3-year battle with cancer on Saturday, August 6, 2022, with his two devoted daughters and family by his side. Bill was born on August 4, 1940. A lifelong Akron resident and Kenmore High School graduate, Bill fell in love with the pretty girl next door, Carole, and they were married on June 2, 1962. The two built a beautiful life together, sharing 58 years of marriage, until Carole’s passing in September 2020. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, sister, and beloved wife.

He will sadly be missed by his loving children, Laurie (Steve) Gray and Dayna Loepp; his adoring grandchildren, Taylor (Andrew) Gray-Medved, Kelly (Curt) Padrutt, Adam Gray, Lily Gray, Nicole (Dan) Kish, Bethany (Andrew) Neff, and Joey Loepp; great grandson, Luca, and great granddaughter on the way; and by lifelong friends, Rita & Walt Williams and Juston Jones.

Bill’s favorite pastimes were fishing and traveling with his best friend and wife, Carole. Bill had many hobbies, enjoying metal detecting, hosting his annual grandkids campouts to celebrate his birthday, restoring his MG sports car, and making home movies. He was the camcorder king, an avid videographer documenting his life since he was a young boy. Bill never met a meatloaf he didn’t like, and there wasn’t a car he couldn’t fix. He loved his 72” TV, working on his computer, listening to music, and nightly visits with “The Crew.”

Bill had a long and successful career at Roadway Express as a Computer Systems Analyst. After a 30-year career, Bill had the privilege of retiring at the young age of 55. He enjoyed every second of his retirement.

Bill loved his family and treasured his 7 grandchildren and new, great grandson. They were his pride and joy. He kept his hair and humor until the very end. After reaching his goal of making it to his 82nd birthday, Bill was looking forward to seeing what was on the other side.

Honoring Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333.