Charlotte Suzie (Rhoads) Merkel

     Charlotte "Suzie Rhoads" Merkel, 76, formerly of Kutztown, died Monday, May 28, 2018 in The Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, where she had been a patient for over a week.  She resided at the Buehrle Center which was part of the Lutheran Home at Topton, Topton, Pa.

     Born in Reading, PA, Berks County, she was the daughter of the late Arthur L. and Charlotte N. (Bower) Rhoads.  Her most recent employment before retiring was with the Fleetwood Bank, Fleetwood, PA but she is also well known for her time spent with the Kutztown Area School District as the cafeteria secretary and cashier.  She was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ, Kutztown.  She also was a member of the Kutztown Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

     She was voted class clown in high school and carried that spirit with her throughout her life.  Most she touched could tell a story that involved fun and laughter.  She was devoted to her family and also enjoyed her bingo and trips to the casinos.

     She is survived by sons, Tim D. husband of Lisa (Christman) Mertz and Todd E. husband of Michele (Zimmerman) Mertz.  Other survivors include her grandchildren Trever W. husband of Kristina (Wessner) Mertz, Trent D. husband of Lyndsey (Weaknecht) Mertz, Layne M. Mertz, Tucker C. Mertz and Connor T. Mertz.  She also has one great grandchild August J. Mertz.  And, her sister Janice E. (Rhoads) wife of the late Stanley "Grit" Koller. Charlotte was predeceased by two brothers, George E. Rhoads and Rodney A. Rhoads.

     Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.  A memorial service to celebrate Charlotte's life will be held at St. John's United Church of Christ, 257 W. Walnut Street, Kutztown, PA on June 24, 2018 at 3PM. Visitation with the family 2pm till time of service.

     The family would like to thank everyone at the Lutheran Home at Topton and the Lehigh Valley Hospital for taking such great care of her, especially this past year when she needed the most help and support.  They also want to acknowledge friends who took her to high school class breakfast events and appointments which meant the world to her.

     The family requests contributions be made to the Lutheran Home at Topton Activity Fund, 1 South Home Avenue, Topton Pa. 19562. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward J. Hildenbrand Funeral Home, Inc., Kutztown, PA.

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