John Francis Merkler, Jr.

John F. Merkler Jr. “Boompie”, 85 of Largo passed away May 4, 2024 at Suncoast Hospice. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Marie Merkler; sister Virginia and his loving wife Judith Merkler. Boompie is survived by his daughters Andrea and Julie, grand children AJ (Anthony Joseph), Aubreanna and Atticus. Boompie was active in his church communities (St, Matthew’s Seminole, Fl and St. Julie Billiart Tinley Park, Il) and shared his faith with his family. He was a teacher for 39 years in the Chicago Public School system and enjoyed implementing garden clubs which still exist today. He will be remembered by family, friends and his students as a cultivator of love. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Joseph Indian School via https://stjo.org/flowers or P.O. Box 100 Chamberlain SD 57325.