Obituary of Else Sommer Merkel

Mrs. Else Sommer Merkel, resided in Bridgewater, New Jersey, and passed away peacefully on April 5, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Mrs. Else Sommer Merkel was born to Mr. Karl Hugo Sommer and Mrs. Erna (Hoerdt) Sommer in Germany on September 1, 1928. After leaving Germany, the family lived briefly in Switzerland while her husband, Mr. Karl Wilhelm Merkel, served as International Technical Director for Reichhold Chemicals, Inc., before making America her home. The family lived in California and New Jersey.

This remarkable woman traveled the world with family, by herself, and often with her devoted husband, Karl. She cultivated a spirit of adventure, imagination, and creativity. She was a hopeful woman, who shared her wisdom and artistry.  Perseverance and determination were qualities that allowed her to succeed, and qualities that she instilled in her family. Mrs. Else Sommer Merkel lived with a strong sense of honor, honesty, love, and commitment to charity. She raised her family according to these values. She was ever present to rely on, confide in, seek counsel with, and to provide comfort with support.

Mrs. Else Sommer Merkel was predeceased by her wonderful and devoted husband, Mr. Karl Wilhelm Merkel, two loving sons, Mr. Thomas Carl Merkel and Dr. Michael Peter Merkel.  Her daughter, Dr. Claudia Merkel-Keller, and her husband, Mr. Walter J. Keller, of Bridgewater, New Jersey, and granddaughter, Dr. Jessica V. Merkel-Keller, and her husband, Dr. David J. Sinopoli, of Baltimore, Maryland, in addition to the extended family and friends who are stricken by this loss of their most beloved Mrs. Else Sommer Merkel.

A private family service under the care of Higgins Home for Funerals in Watchung, New Jersey, took place on Monday, April 10, 2023, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.

Dearest Mother, you are still with us being protected by the hands of the Almighty.  Rest in eternal peace.