Paul Merkl

1981 - 2024

Paul Matthew Merkl, passed away in Lethbridge on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the age of 42 years.

Relatives and friends were invited to meet with the family at the Taber Evangelical Church, 5001 - 64 Avenue, Taber on Monday, February 19, 2024 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.

The Funeral Service was held at the Taber Evangelical Church (formerly the Evangelical Mennonite Church), 5001 - 64 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. Burial followed at the Taber Memorial Garden.

To view a recording of the service, click on the 'livestream link' on this page.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of determination, endurance, strength, love, and family. He is survived by his father Bill Merkl of Barnwell, sister Andrea Pyne of Edmonton, sister Sheila (Jesse) Terpstra of Lethbridge and brother John Merkl of Barnwell; nieces and nephews Brittany (Shawn) Fletcher and Hunter Pyne, Evelyn, Emily, Francine and Luke Terpstra, by his great nieces and nephew Zander Merkl and Zayla and Jazlin Fletcher.

He was predeceased by his mother Monell Merkl, grandparents Frank and Tillie Merkl and Alfred and Neva Taillefer.

Paul loved life, and put his whole heart into anything he chose to do. Family was his biggest passion, helping out in any way he could. He did a lot of babysitting for his sisters, as he had always loved kids from an early age, teasing and playing with them and they always came back for more. He knew countless uncle jokes and used puns regularly. People were drawn to Paul. He had spirit that caused people to want to share conversation with him, whether it be a serious one, or just shootin' the breeze.

Paul was a very determined man, not allowing anything to stop him from enjoying life, even after becoming a paraplegic following a dirt bike accident at the age of 20 years. He endured more than his fair share of medical problems, but his outlook on his life wouldn't allow it to slow him down. His many stories and experiences included sports in his younger years, becoming a musician and professional growler in a few heavy metal bands which traveled western Canada, being a heavy metal show promoter having hosted bands from around the world, fishing, hunting, farming, music, his pets, world history, cooking, barbeque and smoked foods and hot peppers. Paul was a great friend, brother, son and uncle and he will be dearly missed.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Paul’s name may be made directly to the charity of one’s personal choice.