Richard J. "Dick" Merkamp

   Richard J. “Dick” Merkamp, 90, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at The Springs of Richmond.

   He was born in Abington Township in Wayne County on May 14, 1933, the youngest son of Robert W. & Eva M. Wissler Merkamp. He was a 1951 graduate of Centerville High School.

   Dick was a dairy farmer in the Economy area for 25 years. In 1976, he co-founded Merkamp Sales & Service, operating as one of the first White Farm Equipment dealers. The business continues to serve clients today under its second generation of family ownership. Dick maintained a presence there when he could, continuing to greet customers. Dick enjoyed his vintage Oliver tractors, mowing grass, planting trees and maintaining his property, and walking his dog. 

   Dick will be missed by his wife of 71 years, the former Nancy Wright Merkamp, whom he married on October 25, 1952; his children, Gary Merkamp & wife, Donna; Tom Merkamp, David Merkamp & wife, Tina; Stuart Merkamp & wife, Tammi; Lori Carboneau & husband, Mark; Julie Conrad & husband, Kenny; Daniel Merkamp & wife, Courtney; 12 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and several nieces & nephews.

   Dick was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Olivia Jean Merkamp; daughter-in-law, Cathy Rummel; sisters, Erpha Lucille Baumer and Ruth Eileen Nocton; brother, Kenneth Robert Merkamp. 

   Family & friends are invited to a visitation from 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, at the Smith-McQuiston & Webster Funeral Home, 321 US 27 South, Fountain City. A funeral ceremony will begin at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery in Centerville.