Michael Simon Merkel, 19, of Muhlenberg, passed away Tuesday, February 28, 2017. Simon was born February 17, 1998 at RHMC. Simon was a 2016 graduate of Muhlenberg High School and Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center. He had a passion for soccer, cars, and of course video games. He graduated with High Honors and various awards such as Outstanding Technical Academy Student. Hard work and commitment to his education secured him The President’s Scholarship to attend RACC on a full ride. He planned on then moving on to earn a Bachelor’s degree. Recently he found weightlifting and was in the gym every chance he got. One day he hoped to have a career in the fitness industry and his vision motivated him to do the right things. In addition, he also worked at Giant Food Stores and Fantasy Skating Center. He laughed, smiled, and loved his family and would do anything for his friends. He was proud to be himself, an honest, hardworking young man.

Simon is survived by father Michael G. Merkel, stepmother Michelle (Sabatucci) Merkel, and brother Jackson Merkel, at home. He is predeceased by mother Chassity Quinter. He is also survived by grandparents Robert and Cindy Quinter and George and Alice Merkel. He leaves behind many close friends and an extended family including a great-great aunt and uncle, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Milkins Giles Funeral Home, Inc., 4914 Kutztown Rd., Temple, PA. Calling hours will be held Saturday, March 4th from 9-11am with service to follow in the funeral home. Rev. Paul Hansen will officiate. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SkillsUSA-RMCTC, 2615 Warren Road, Reading, PA 19604. Simon was very proud of everything this organization enabled him to accomplish.

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