Obituary of Karen M. Merkel

Karen Morrison Merkel, 71, wife of Alan Merkel, passed away Saturday January 30, 2021 at Einstein Medical Center Montgomery.

Karen was born December 28, 1949 in Charleston, WV to Marvin and Ilda Mae (Briscoe) Morrison. Karen married Alan and moved to the Phoenixville community to raise their family.  Karen is remembered as a loving mother, loyal friend and lover of animals. She was compassionate and always quick to place others first.  A woman of faith, Karen was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Phoenixville where she served the community in a variety of ways.  Karen was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and served as an election poll volunteer for many years. In her retirement, she established many friends through the Senior Circle at the Phoenixville Hospital and the broader Phoenixville senior community.

Karen leaves behind her husband of 39 years, Alan Merkel of Phoenixville; two adoring daughters:  Katie Ball (wife of John III) Phoenixville and Sara Merkel of Charleston, WV; two grandchildren:  Johnny (John IV) and Tessa Mae.  Karen was preceded in death by her parents and a beloved younger sister Jane Ellen Morrison.

A funeral service will be held at 2:30 PM Thursday February 4, 2021 in the R. Strunk Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Phoenixville with Reverend Doug Hagler officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 1:00 – 2:00 PM, Thursday, February 4, 2021 in the Funeral Home. 

A Private Burial will be in the Forest Memorial Park, Milton, WV. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to help support the missions at the First Presbyterian Church of Phoenixville.

Online condolences can be made at www.rstrunkfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are being handled by R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. Phoenixville, PA.