Edward A. Merkel, 96, of Columbus formerly of Dillonvale, died Friday October 4, 2013 at Mt. Carmel St. Anns Hospital Columbus. He was born September 11, 1917 in Dillonvale, a son of the late Albert and Jesse A. (Gerke) Merkel. He was a member of the Dillonvale United Methodist Church, a retired employee of the railroad, the Dillonvale American Legion, Mt. Pleasant Lions Club, the Knights of Malta, the Dillonvale Chapter of AARP, he was a veteran in WW II in the US Army Air Corp. and the Korean War in the US Air Force. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his loving wife Zana (Vlcek) Merkel in 2009, brothers; Clarence W., Herman, Albert C., George A., and Myron L., Merkel, and sisters Gertrude Cesare, Clara Korumlauf, and Elsie Yonda. Ed is survived by his sons, Albert C. (Brenda) Merkel of Evanston Ill. and Richard L. (Monica) Merkel of Worthington, a sister; Beatrice (Edward) Finney of Arizona, six grandchildren Danielle Merkel, Jesse (Brook) Merkel, Kathleen (James) Caldwell, Elizabeth (Scott) Merrick, Christopher Merkel, and Laura (Craig) Merkel-Deno, great grandchildren Kassidy and Zoe Merkel, and Ava and Andrew Caldwell. Friends will be received on Monday October 7, 2013 from 1 till time of service 2 pm at Wilson Funeral Home 154 Second St. Dillonvalle, with Pastor William Burris officiating, entombment in Holly Memorial Gardens Pleasant Grove. Memorial contributions may be made to Worthington Christian Village 156 Highbuffs Bvd. Columbus, Ohio 43235.To leave a condolence please visit www.wilsonfuneralhomes.com