Robert "Bobby" Warren Merkle

St. Leonard, MD resident, Robert Warren Merkle, “Bobby” passed peacefully on November 6, 2023, at the age of 84 years.

Born the second son of Ruth Virginia (Milburn) and Paul Pershing Merkle, Sr.

Bobby grew up in Columbia Park behind the P.G. County Country Club, at the 11^th hole.   He attended and graduated from Bladensburg Senior High School, Class of 1957.   After graduating, Bobby was accepted into Steamfitters Local 602 for a 5-year apprenticeship.  He was “put out in advance” in his 4^th year because he had talent and exceptional abilities.

Bobby met the love of his life at a party in District Heights.  He took her home that evening, and after dating for a period, they married.  Bobby married Elizabeth Anna Murray on October 15, 1960, and continued love, family and life for 63 years. 

In 1962 their family grew when their first child came along, a son, Robert Dale.  A few years later they added a daughter, Karen Irene and then Jennifer Ann.  They raised their family in Palmer Park where they resided from 1961 to 1969.  Then they moved to Calvert County where they have remained for the last 53 years.

A positive thought causes a chain reaction of thoughts, events and outcomes.  Those who knew Bobby knew that he was a deeply caring person and so pleasant to be around, that people would often become friends with him easily after meeting him.  The next time anyone who loves golf reaches into their bag, pulls out a driver and hits a good one down the fairway, think of Bobby.  Fishing was also one of his favorite past times.

Bobby worked as a steamfitter for 25 years at the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant.  His son Dale followed in his Dad’s footsteps and was also a steamfitter.

Survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Anna Merkle of St. Leonard, MD, devoted children, Robert D. Merkle (wife Cheryl Merkle) of Bryantown, MD, Karen I. Murphy (husband Gerald Murphy) of Lusby, MD and Jennifer A. Merkle of Churchton, MD.  Also survived by his granddaughter, Claire E. Murphy (fiancée Greg Meyers) of Murrysville, PA.  In addition to his parents, Bobby was pre-deceased by his older brother, the late Paul P. Merkle, Jr.

The family will receive friends at Lee Funeral Home Calvert, 8200 Jennifer Lane, Owings, MD 20736 on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.

In Lieu of flowers, contributions in memory may be directed to the Optimist Club of Prince Frederick, MD., PO BOX 2422, Prince Frederick, MD. CalvertOptimists@gmail.com Optimistclubofcalvert.org