The family of Archie Merkley, age 84, are saddened to announce his passing on March 2, 2022 at Hogarth Riverview Manor from Alzheimer’s. He was a great and much-loved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, neighbour, and friend.
Archie and Gail were married on October 12, 1957 and started a family, living at the same home on Dawson Road for 63 years. He was a proud member of Pipefitters Local 628 and loved his profession for 40 years, working throughout Northwestern Ontario and one memorable summer in New Brunswick in which the entire family joined. He worked closely with Clow Darling, often as a well-liked foreman, just being “one of the guys”. After a hard day’s work, Archie loved tending to his vegetable gardens, while enjoying a beer or 4. He was a master gardener, once winning 21 ribbons at the CLE vegetable contest, 18 of those 1st place. When not gardening, he loved fishing, usually catching the most fish than anybody. He and Gail travelled coast to coast in both Canada and USA, at times with the children, to visit family and friends. Las Vegas, Disneyland, Disney World, Dog and Horse Races, Universal Studios, to name a few. His son Rod introduced him to the game of golf, in which Archie enjoyed for many years. There were many parties and good times, that will be fondly remembered from corn roasts to croquet tournaments, fish derby’s or playing cards with neighbours and friends. He had a marvelous sense of humour like no other, and could chat it up with many laughs and no shortage of stories. He had a tool for everything and could fix whatever needed to be fixed.
During retirement, he had more time for gardening, fishing, baking bread and beer. He discovered curling with the Port Arthur Curling Club. As well he started a new career, caddying for his son in golf tournaments, although he didn’t pay very well.
Thank you goes out to Dr. Feldstein and to the Daffodil, Daisy and Rose Units, who took care of Archie since December 2017.
Archie is survived by his wife Gail, daughters Lorrie (Richard), Charlene of Ireland, and son Rod; grandchildren: Kal (Jana), Suzanne (Dre) of Toronto; brother Grant and sister Marion (Okotoks); as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his father Simon, mother Marion, step-mother Edna, brothers: Lynn, Mark, Clifford, Charlie and sister Ethel.
As per Archie’s wishes, cremation has taken place, an interment and graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Archie’s memory may be made to a charity of choice or please buy a brick at the North McIntyre Rec. Centre on Government Road.
Rest in Peace Archie
