James "Jim" Merkley's Obituary
James (Jim) Victor Merkley, 87, of Dupo, IL, passed away on Monday, December 26, 2022 at his residence.
Jim was born May 5, 1935, in Huntingburg, IN. He graduated from Evansville College with a degree in Education. Nicknamed “Golden Toe,” Jim was a member of the football and baseball teams. He later received his master’s degree in Education from SIUC and worked as a teacher, administrator, and coach. Jim married Nancy Funke on September 28th, 1957. They were the devoted parents of four children. He retired from Dupo High School after 33 years of teaching. He is remembered by many for his unique teaching techniques in his science classroom.
Jim and Nancy loved to travel. They climbed many mountains, hit all 50 states, Europe and the Holy Land. Jim was a long-time member and self-proclaimed “dirt minister” of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He volunteered countless hours at Hilltoppers Swim Club. He enjoyed tinkering on his Shopsmith and maintaining the neighborhood.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vic and Selma (nee Friedman) Merkley; sister, Betty Merkley; and brother, Don Merkley.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Nancy; children, John Merkley, Salle (Jeff) Plunkett, Linda (Mark) Sullivan, and Chris Merkley; grandchildren, Hannah Plunkett, Chloe Merkley, Erin and Leo Sullivan; sister, Carol (Ronnie) Stolz, along with other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held Thursday, December 29, 2022, 4 - 7 p.m. at Leesman Funeral Home in Dupo, IL and Friday, December 30, from 9 - 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dupo, IL, followed by a funeral mass. Frs. Linus Umoren and Osang Odagbo will be officiating. Interment will follow in the Holy Family/St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Dupo, IL.
In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Arrangements were handled by Leesman Funeral Home in Dupo, IL.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?