Jack Jay Merkle, aged 62, of Runnells, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Jack was born on January 2, 1964, in Osceola, Iowa, the son of Robert Bruce Merkle and Beverly Ann (Johnston) Merkle. He arrived as the first of twins, a joyful surprise that completed their family of five - his parents only learning they were expecting twins on the day the boys were born. Not long after, the family moved to Altoona, Iowa, where Jack was raised and graduated from Southeast Polk High School.

Jack spent decades working in the garbage industry, beginning his career with a small company that was later acquired by Waste Management. Over the years he worked, he had many titles from garbage collector to roll-off driver to most recently, route manager. Jack truly loved his work and formed some of his closest friendships on the job. He looked forward to going to work each day and often joked that he would never be ready to retire, as he genuinely enjoyed his career every day.

Jack was the most selfless and caring individual, a friend to everyone he met. Above all, his greatest love was his wife, Jill Merkle, who he met on a blind date at a comedy show in 1989. Following her recent diagnosis with dementia, Jack devoted himself wholeheartedly to her care, making her well-being and comfort his highest priority. Together, they raised their children in Runnells, Iowa, where Jack was actively involved at Runnells Christian Church and the Camp Township Fire Department. Those who knew Jack will remember him as a man of strong faith, a generous heart, and a wonderful sense of humor, highlighted by a laugh that was truly unforgettable.

Jack is survived by his wife, Jill Merkle; two children, Benjamin (Sarah) Merkle and Emily (Keaton) Townsend; his siblings, Scott (Cathy) Merkle, Vicki (Tim) Meyer, and Jerry (Tracy) Merkle; his parents, Bob and Beverly Merkle; a brother-in-law, Randy Nelson; and many nieces and nephews. Jack is preceded in death by his sister, Lauri Nelson.

Jack's family will greet friends for visitation on Thursday, April 30, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the Runnells Christian Church. A memorial service will be held the following day at 11:00 AM at the church. Directly after the service, a committal ceremony will take place at Warren-Powers Cemetery outside of Runnells. Following the committal, a reception with light snacks and beverages will be held back at the church.

Memorial contributions in Jack's honor may be made to the Runnells Christian Church, the Camp Township Fire Department, or the Alzheimer's Association.