Robert J. Merkel

Robert (Bob) John Merkel, 70, longtime resident of Oak Creek, Wisconsin and most recent resident of Pewaukee was called home on Thursday, December 9, 2021.  He was a devoted husband of Cynthia (nee Nachtman), loving father and stepfather of Eric (Tami), Darin (Consuela), John (Aimee) and Craig (Denise), Matthew (Becky) Giunta and Ellen Giunta. Proud grandfather of Steven (Abbie), Melissa, Mila and baby brother on the way, Luke, T.J., Lucy, Paul, and great-granddaughter Henley. Also loved by sisters Margaret (Donny), Claudia (Mike), nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

Bob was born on March 28, to Leonard and Catherine Merkel in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Bob graduated from Oak Creek High School in 1969 and began working for Tom Kuehne Landscaping before beginning a career at Wisconsin Electric in Oak Creek.  Bob had a successful career at WE Energies as a control operator for 36 years; he enjoyed the camaraderie of his coworkers.  Bob was a dedicated Boy Scout troop leader for many years, Little League umpire, and enjoyed watching his children participate in athletic events.  Bob retired in 2015 and has spent his time relaxing with family and friends, especially the annual “Liver Dinner” group gatherings sharing an Old Fashioned among friends.  He was a Marquette basketball fan, season ticket holder for several years, and enjoyed attending the first round of NCAA March Madness at the Bradley Center with his boys.  In 1999, Bob met Cynthia at a Catholic singles group at St. Stephen’s Church in Milwaukee and married in 2004.

Bob’s children will be welcoming visitors at Krause Funeral Home in Brookfield on Friday, December 17,  2021 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The family is requesting that all attendees wear face masks.  A private burial will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery in the Village of Pewaukee. Due to Covid, Cynthia will be planning a memorial mass and celebration of life in the future. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Hunger Task Force or Milwaukee Rescue Mission, organizations that Bob generously supported throughout the years.