Leon D. "Sonny" Merkel, 85, of St. Cloud, FL, died Jan. 6, 2021 in Riverside Medical Center, Newport News, VA.  He was the husband of Jacqueline R. (Pelland) Merkel.  Born in Wescosville, he was the son of the late Percy H. and Mildred (Miller) Merkel.  He honorably served his country in the Army.  He worked as a production technician for Mack Trucks for 30 years, retiring in 1991.  Sonny was a member of the Masonic Fraternity for 36 years, member and Past Master of Barger Lodge #333 F&AM, member of Greenleaf Lodge #561 F&AM, member of the Scottish Rite since 1986, and past Royal Patron of the Order of the Amaranth.  He was also a life member of the Macungie Fire Company.

Leon is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jackie; daughter, Denise L. wife of Wayne Cochran of Smithfield, VA; grandsons, Dylan and Justin; sisters, LaRue Lightner of Grantville, Janice Romig of Palm, and Betty Fenstermaker of Emmaus; sister-in-law, Paulette Reber of Coopersburg.

Due to COVID-19, services and burial will be private.  Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.