Obituary of Michael Sebastian Merle

Michael Sebastian Merle, 85, of Wadsworth, passed away on Monday, July 9. He was the husband of Louise (Maltarich) Merle. Born in Akron, Ohio, he was the son of Sebastian and Rose (Rossy) Merle. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his seven children: Michael J. Merle, husband of Judith, Cuyahoga Falls; Mary V. Basford, wife of Douglas, Copley; Thomas J. Merle, husband of Laura, Dayton; Margaret L. Galehouse, wife of George R., Bath; James P. Merle, husband of Regina, Green; Christine M. Kolva, wife of Theodore, Wyomissing, PA; Joseph A. Merle, Akron. 18 grandchildren: Michael Merle, husband of Leslie, Meredith Barna, wife of James, Ryan Basford, Michelle Basford, Laura Basford, Macy Merle, Jacob Klapal, Payton Merle, Taylor Merle, David Galehouse, Evan Merle, Lauren Merle, Sean Merle, Matthew Merle, Theodore Kolva, Caroline Kolva, Katherine Kolva, Hannah Merle and Emily Merle as well as three great grandchildren: Madison Merle , Jack Barna and Nathan Barna. Also surviving is his sister Mary (Merle) Jenkins, wife of Donald. Michael was predeceased by his brother, Joseph C. Merle. A graduate of Kenmore High School, he was a 35-year veteran of the Akron Fire Department retiring in 1989 as District Fire Chief. "Pop" to us, "dad" to everyone, he was devoted to his children, grandchildren and community. He cared deeply for others. His legacy of unselfish giving to others, patience, kindness and unconditional love along with his beautiful smile, sense of humor and keen intelligence will live on forever. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 13, at 11:00 am at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown Street, Akron, Ohio. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Anthony Funeral Home KUCKO-ANTHONY-KERTESZ CHAPEL, Where a last alarm will be conducted at 6:00 pm, 1990 South Main Street, Akron, Ohio. Burial will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery, Akron, Ohio. Memorials may be made to: St. Paul School Endowment Trust, 1580 Brown Street, Akron, Ohio, 44301. (Anthony Funeral Homes, Akron, 330.724.1281, anthonyfh.com)