Obituary

Merkel, Cecelia E., 80, Hyndman, peacefully passed away October 19, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born April 28, 1945, she was the daughter of the late Irvin and Wilda Leydig. Also preceded in death by her son, Eric Merkel; brothers, Newton Huffman and Edgar “Bus” Leydig; brother in-laws, Kenneth Merkel who she considered a son, Roger Clarr, Terry Merkel.

Cel was loved by her husband of 61 years Darris G. Merkel. Also survived by her son David and wife Adele, James and wife Wendy, Todd and wife Terri; 3 sisters, 6 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Cel lived a life of service to others and dedication to her Lord Jesus. Her greatest joy was the people who filled her life, her lifelong love Butch, her precious children and grandchildren, and her beloved dog Buddy Boy. Her home was an open door to all who entered. She enjoyed cooking large meals on Sundays and holidays for family, friends, and neighbors. She loved to share Christmas cookies and home canned goods from their garden. Everyone was welcome in her home, and she made sure no one went without a meal. She was a true example of being the hands and feet of Jesus. She loved family beach vacations and any opportunity to be surrounded with family. Another service she loved providing was haircare in her salon that she owned and operated for over 37 years. To Butch, she was his precious wife, to her children she was Mom, and the glue who held it all together, to her grandchildren she was “Memaw”, and to many others she was “Gram”.  Cel was a light in many people’s darkness. While she will be missed on this earth, to all who knew and loved her, we know that she has entered the arms of Jesus and has heard the words she lived her life to hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant, enter in”. She will live on in the many lives she has touched. There will be a memorial service held on November 8, 2025, at 1pm. at the Glad Tidings Church in Hyndman, PA.