John D. Merkel, 86, of Perry Twp., passed away Monday, July 12, 2021 in Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center. He was the husband of Roma M. (Reinhart) Merkel. They were married May 1956 and celebrated 65 years of marriage.

Born in Reading, he was the son of the late John D. and Verna M. Merkel. He worked as a trailer jockey from East Penn Manufacturing for 30 years before retiring in 1996. He and his wife owned and operated Roma's Rides for approximately 20 years; and currently owned and operated John D. Merkel Furniture Stripping for 40 years. He was a member of the Antique Engine and Toy Tractor Club, Inc., where he served as President for 20 years. He enjoyed going to auctions, woodworking, and collecting stuff.

Surviving in addition to his wife are two sons: Ronald J. Merkel, husband of Amy S. (Heckman) Merkel, Perry Twp., and John O. Merkel, husband of Marissa, Shoemakersville; a daughter: Debra A. (Merkel) wife of Robert J. Clay, Shoemakersville; four grandchildren: Misty (Clay) Moyer, RJ Clay, Luke Merkel, and Courtney Merkel; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a niece: Barbara Reinhart, and her children: Paul and Dean Reinhart.

Services will be held Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at 11:00 am from Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 223 Peach Street Leesport, PA 19533. Burial will follow in Berks County Memorial Gardens. A viewing will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 am in the funeral home. For online condolences, please visit www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com