Daniel Merkle

Daniel “Dan” Merkle passed away on Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 at the age of 68. He was reunited with his mother, Joan, and is survived by his loving wife, Diane; his children, Brian (Megan), Allison, and Chelsea (Kyle); granddaughter Mackenzie; his father, William; and siblings, Chip (Jill), Molly, and Sam (Sandra).

Dan was a loving husband, father, brother, and friend to all throughout his life, always showing off his infectious smile, hootin’ and hollerin’ throughout the house, and shooting out his best zingers to keep his loved ones on their toes.

A colon cancer survivor since 2006, Dan chose to live life to the fullest through every challenge that followed. He showed his loved ones that good company, a few laughs, and an ice-cold Diet Coke could help carry you through even the toughest times. Throughout his life, Dan loved golfing and tennis, traveling with friends and family, discovering new music, good food and trying new restaurants, cheering on the Buckeyes and Bengals, and spending time on Anna Maria Island and out at Seneca Lake. Following his battle with cancer, he developed a passion for collecting and refurbishing antique advertising clocks, becoming a respected member of the collector community with his peak collection spanning 100+ clocks.

A celebration of life will be held for Dan on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 from 12-3pm located at Worthington Hills Country Club. In lieu of flowers, please come with your best stories about Dan and consider making a donation to The James OSU Cancer Center for Gastrointestinal Cancer Research in his name.

https://cancer.osu.edu/for-donors-and-volunteers/how-to-donate/donate-by-cancer-type