Jeffrey M. Merickel, 77, of Wooster passed away on Sunday September 22, 2024 at Akron General Hospital.
He was born on February 18, 1947, in Akron to Michael and Doris Matulin Merickel. In 2003 he married Keri Latham. She survives.
Jeffrey proudly served his country in United States Navy for 12 years as an electrician. He was the Ohio State VICA/Skills USA Executive Director serving a total of 45 years in education. Jeffrey was the past Master of the Masonic Lodge in Akron, member of the Wooster Elks. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, gun collector and enjoyed skeet shooting.
In addition to his wife, Keri he is survived by his daughters Christine (Rodney) Myers II of Dayton, Nicole (Matt) Kendall of Springfield and Tara Justice of Indiana; step daughter Diana (Aaron) Mast of Dover; grandchildren Rodney (Chelsey) Dennin, Nicholas Kendall, Juliette Pleskach, Benicio Derosa; step grandchildren Jaxson Mast and Liam Beckham; great grandchildren Wesley Dennin and Maycee Dennin; a sister Denise (Wayne) Forhand and many cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter Michelle Hughes.
Memorial Service to be held Friday, September 27, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Oak Chapel United Methodist Church, 4203 W. Old Lincoln Way, Wooster, Ohio 44691. A luncheon will follow the service at the church. A private inurnment will be held at OWRNC at a later date.
Friends will be received one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Skills USA Ohio, 2550 Corporate Exchange Dr. Suite 115, Columbus, Ohio 43231 or https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=TTZB6X8ZA5APA.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
Dear Keri, it so hard to loss someone you love, angels are close to those whose hearts are breaking. Hugs to you Camille Olsen
Dear Keri and family,
I’m so sorry to hear about Jeff’s passing. Please know that my deepest thoughts and prayers are with you and all of the family. We shared many wonderful memories together throughout the years in Skills USA (VICA).
Karen
This wonderful human being had the love of Skills, USA and career and tech education. Let’s get behind his legacy and see how much we can raise for Skills USA under his memory!
I am thinking of you and sending condolences. May your memories comfort. .
To the family of my good friend of 50 years, Jeff Merickel.
How can I thank you Jeff, for all the support you gave me when we taught Adult Education for Akron Public Schools in 1976.
How can I thank you for all the trips we took to Sport Shows in Cleveland, New York, and Michigan.
How can I thank you for the fishing trips to West Arm Ontario, Lake Evans, Island Ten, Mirage Quebec, and West Branch Ohio.
How can I thank you for helping me learn to catch pike, walleye, bass, and musky.
I can only say Thank You, with the most profound appreciation of your friendship and kindness during these past 50 years.
What a “Great Fishing Trip” it has been dear friend. May you rest in eternal Peace. Blessings to you and your family. Ardie Scholles
Keri & Family,
It is with deep love & sympathy that we share our thoughts and prayers with all of you.
It was truly an honor to volunteer/work with one of the greatest directors and leaders of Skills USA Ohio (VICA) Jeff Merickle was compassionate and instrumental in making sure that all students had the best and most memorable experience at local, state and National Events. All who served beside Jeff fed off of his passion for the well being of career tech students and thus created some of the greatest student leaders and competitors along with the best career tech teachers in Ohio. VICA was the best student run organization in the country during Jeff’s tenure as Director, he strived for perfection by always leading Ohio to the next level of excellence!
Peace be with you friend, your legacy lives on in each and every one of us!
Keri and family, All of you are in our prayers asking GOD to grant you peace and comfort at this most difficult time. Keep all the good memories close and keep strong in your faith. God bless my friend.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CnQ8N1KacJc
Working with Jeff and all his team over many years provided me with a lifetime of great memories that I will always cherish. I made lifetime wonderful friends. He was a leader of leaders. His work has left a legacy.
My heartfelt sympathy to all and especially Keri. Love and peace to all.
Keri,
So sorry for the loss of your husband. Mine passed away 2 years ago so I understand how difficult this is for you. Keeping you in my prayers.
Carolyn Goodrich
Keri,
So very sorry for your loss. May you find some comfort in knowing that you will be reunited with Jeff in the future
Kari and family, so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed my years working with Jeff at Pioneer. Sending prayers for Gods peace. Ray & Gaye Shira
Keri, It was a honor and pleasure in knowing Jeff. He had a true calling when he worked with
young people as State Director of Skills USA ( VICA ). I will always have many fond memories.
Remember, I am here for you, if you need anything.