Nola Kathleen "Kathy" Merkle

Kathy passed away at her husband’s side after a lengthy battle with cancer and left this life for life eternal on July 6, 2024. She was born on August 4, 1947, in Kansas City, Kansas to the late James E. Finch and Nola J. Finch (nee Burge). She married the love of her life, George M. Merkle, on September 8, 1978. Kathy was a proud United States Navy veteran and worked for many years in insurance claims. In her later life, she raised her children, cared for her aging parents, and spent countless hours volunteering with Stephen Ministries and counseling and serving as a pillar of support for family, friends, and others. Kathy never met a stranger. She was a long-time member of Harvester Christian Church. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God, and immovable love of her family and friends propelled her through many health battles, including three bouts with cancer. Her greatest joy in life was her family, particularly her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Kathy is survived by her husband; three children: Timothy Merkle of St. Charles, Nola Michelle (Ibraham) Malcolm of St. Peters, and Michael (Erin) Merkle of St. Louis; eight grandchildren: Gavin (Savannah) Merkle, Destiny Merkle, Kamara Merkle, Nayah Malcolm, Iyana Malcolm, Sophia Malcolm, George Merkle, and Lillian Merkle; nine great-grandchildren; her brother, Pat (Mi AE) Finch, and many beloved nephews, nieces, and friends. She was preceded in this life by her daughter, Dori Merkle, her grandson, Theodore “Teddy” Merkle, her parents, her brother, Michael Finch, and her sister, Jaime Brewer. Towards the end of her life, she spoke frequently of Heaven, and we know she will be waiting to welcome her loved ones with open arms, just as she always did in life. A funeral service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, July 20 at Harvester Christian Church, 2950 Kings Crossing, St. Charles, MO 63303. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harvester Christian Church for their mission work.