Bradford Otto Merkle

Bradford Otto Merkle at the age 76, passed away peacefully at his home in

Buckley, Washington, on October 18, 2025, surrounded by those who loved

and cherished him. Born on April 26, 1949, in LA, California. Mother Elaine

Merkle took herself and 3 young boys to Washington where Brad spent most

of his life. Leaving behind his eldest only living brother Douglas Merkle and 3

deceased siblings Duane, Pam and David. Along with his sister-in-law Sue

Merkle . Graduated Federal way high school 1967 second in his class of forty

students. Entered the United States Army 128 th Aviation Company in 1968 -

(The Gunslingers) at the age of 19, served in Vietnam 69-70 as a gunner in an

B Model Huey Helicopter. Received National Defense service medal, Vietnam

service medal, with three bronze service stars, Republic of Vietnam campaign

medal, air medal with valor device and three oak leaf clusters, Army

Commendation Medal, expert rifle M-14, M-16, M-60 and machine gun. Met

and married the love of his life Lillian Brown 1970. They built a foundation

around God and family values. He leaves behind his loving wife Lillian,

daughter MeChelle, son Jeremiah, daughter-in-law Stacey, 6 grandchildren

and 2 great grandchildren. He worked in the concrete industry, considered

one of the best drivers, layer and finisher. Brad spent his spare time flipping

houses and they moved 14 times creating beautiful homes across the PNW.

He and Lillian spent countless hours creating beautiful transcending fishponds

with custom creative yard art landscape. He became a true master of off the

wall random use of words (Okfine) inserting a giggle or all out laughter to

anyone in earshot! He was good company to pretty much anyone unless your

religion or political belief didn’t coincide. He was an inspiring person and will

be missed by many, we love you.

In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest a donation to Washington Soldiers

Home TerryN@DVA.WA.Gov 1301 Orting Kapowsin Hwy Orting,WA 98360.

Any support for our Veterans is important to Brad.

We will have a Service in April at Tahoma National Cemetery 18600 SE 240 th

Kent Wa 98042 and Celebration of Life luncheon to celebrate Brads Life, all

are welcome.