Robert D. Merkes

Robert D. Merkes, age 61, of Lancaster, WI, passed away Thursday, October 4, 2018 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 4, 1956 the son of Peter and Yvonne (Heacock) Merkes. Robert graduated Platteville High School. He later enlisted in the United States Army, during the Vietnam War, stationed in Germany. Robert married Karla R. Nickel on July 18, 1981. He was a carpenter and handy man, helping in the construction of the Boscobel prison and the Grant County Jail. Robert also worked with Mathy Construction in Dubuque. He enjoyed gambling, farming, hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, and being outdoors. Robert loved being with his family and spending time with his grandchildren.

Surviving are his children: Kareen (Brian) Kuecker, Josh (Katelyn Goodman) Nickel, Michelle (Eugene Line) Merkes, Nathan (Jill Yorkman) Tracy; 10 grandchildren; his siblings: Elaine (Roger) Behnke, Mary (Bernie) Kirschbaum, Janet (Marty) Russell, Linda Hildreth, Randy (Ginger) Merkes, and Lisa (Ray) Kress; a sister-in-law, Karen Merkes; a brother-in-law, Jim Skaife; former wife Karla (Dan Scullian) Nickel; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his brother, Eugene; a sister, Diane Skaife; and a brother-in-law, Paul Hildreth.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 12, 2018 at the Martin Schwartz Funeral Home and Crematory in Lancaster with Reverend Pamela Strakeljahn officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends may call on Friday, from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home. The Martin Schwartz Funeral Home and Crematory of Lancaster is assisting the family with his services.