Taft Joseph Merka, 84, a devoted husband, father and friend entered eternal rest on Aug. 23, 2025. Born on June 15, 1941, he lived a life full of faith, generosity and love for his family.
He was known for his dedication to the church, and his ability to make everyone laugh. He is survived by his loving family and friends who will cherish his memory always.
Taft is preceded in death by his parents, Albert Henry Merka, Sr. and Helen Mary Konecny Merka and brother Albert Henry Merka Jr.
He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Ginger Merka; sons Taft Joseph Merka Jr. and wife Pam, Brian Merka; daughters Stephanie Merka, Kimberly Merka; brothers Milton Merka, Charles Merka and wife Carol; sister Marilyn Jackson; grandchildren Tiffany Mafilow, Taft “Joey” Joseph Merka III, Brian Merka, Payton Pichinson, Amber Crowson, Kailee Hash; great-grandchildren Addison, Kyle, Kaleb, Kolby, Kylie, Brently, Joseph, Elizabeth “Izzy”, Mikey, Evie and Kason; numerous nephews, nieces, other family and friends.
A visitation will be held from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, at Pace Stancil Funeral Home, Dayton. A service will follow on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dayton with burial following at Eastgate Cemetery. Father Peter Nguyen will officiate and pallbearers will be Taft Joseph Merka III, Brian Merka, Payton Pichinson, Christopher Graves, Kaleb Graves, Kolby Graves, Michael Pichinson, Chris Mafilow, Aaron Crowson.
“Our Father Who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done, On earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.