MERK, DODD

Posted by Cathy Gowdy on Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 04:54:20 :

The Marin Journal
Thursday, February 12, 1920
Page 3

Sudden Death of Charles H. Merk

Death came Thursday night, February 5th, to claim Chas. H. Merk, son of Mrs. Sarah E. Merk of Petaluma avenue and Third street, this city, and the late George W. Merk. He was suddenly stricken about eight o’clock in the evening and lapsed into unconsciousness, and despite the efforts of two physicians and a nurse he passed away a few hours later.

Charles H. Merk was a native of Nebraska, aged forty-five years. He came to California with his parents when but a year old and most of his life was spent in the bay region. When but a boy he was stricken with asthma and the malady blighted his career. But notwithstanding his afflictions, he was bright and cheerful and seldom complained. He greeted misfortune with a smile and put his faith in his God whom he clung steadily to in all his affliction. His face was wreathed in that enduring smile for his mother as she came to his bedside shortly before unconsciousness enveloped him. Of that quiet and dignified manner, his acquaintance was not wide but those who learned to know him admired or loved him for his great personal charm. His great affliction but endeared him to his mother who had been almost his constant aid and comfort, and to his sister and brothers, who were ever concerned in his welfare. He was one of God’s noblemen who loved the beauty and charm of nature. One of his favorite pastimes during the past five years of almost complete invalidism, was walks to Boyd Park where he would sit among the trees and flowers and listen to the music of the birds.

The funeral was held Saturday from the late home, the Rev. Martin officiating. Many beautiful flowers, the very things he loved, came from admiring friends to embellish the bier. Interment took place in the family plot in Santa Rosa cemetery, where the committal service was read by the Rev. T. H. Dodd. Beside his devoted mother he leaves three brothers – William, Samuel D. and George D. Merk, and one sister, Mrs. T. H. Dodd. A half-brother, Frederick R. Merk, resides in Colorado and was unable to be present at the funeral.