Eugene Paul Merkel

Entered into eternal rest on the evening of March 24, 2012, Eugene Paul Merkel, husband of Bonnie Lewis Merkel, of Charleston, SC. The relatives and friends are invited to attend "A Celebration of his Life," Wednesday, March 28, 2012 in J. Henry Stuhr Inc., West Ashley Chapel, 3360 Glenn McConnell Pkwy from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm. The service and burial are private. ARANGEMENTS BY J. HENRY STUHR INC., WEST ASHLEY CHAPEL.

Gene was born December 4, 1947 in Tyrone, PA, son of Paul Merritt Merkel and Kathryn Flores Merkel and grew up in Phoenixville, PA. He was with the US Marine Corps for 4 years and received his Bachelors Degree from the College of Charleston, where he studied under renowned artist, William M. Halsey. After graduating, he was employed by E.I. Dupont, Bushy Park, SC as a photographer and graphic designer. He was a producer/director of MUSC Health Communications Network where he retired. In his retirement, he enjoyed woodworking, motorcycle riding and fulfilled his love of sailing by obtaining his captain's license.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Bonnie Lewis Merkel of Charleston, SC; son, Benjamin Merkel of Moncks Corner, SC; step-son, Curtis Mack of Charleston, SC; three sisters, Carolyn Eubanks of Goose Creek, SC, Lucy Glass of Falling Timber, PA and Robin Fortney of Asheville, PA and a granddaughter, Emma Merkel.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorials be made to Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412.