Craig A. Merkey, 51, of Stevens, passed away suddenly at home from heart failure on Tuesday, April 28th, 2026. He was the loving husband of Samantha (Smith) Merkey. They were married on November 1st, 1998, in Philadelphia. Born in Ephrata, he was the son of John A. Merkey and the late Beverley A. (Rice) Merkey. Craig was a graduate of Ephrata High School, Lock Haven University and earned his masters in Higher Education at The Pennsylvania State University. Craig could often be found camping with his wife, working on his Land Cruisers, or serving his community.

Craig was an active community member, having served as a member of the Baron Stiegel Lions Club for 31 years, the advisor of the Ephrata Intermediate/Middle School Leo Club for 19 years, the auditor of Clay Township, a member and past president of the Association of Aquatic Professionals for 15 years and was a member of the IH8MUD Forum. Craig recently cofounded a swim lessons company, Aquatics by Design. He was employed by Penn State Harrisburg for 15 years as the Associate Director of Recreation & Aquatics.

Craig will be deeply missed by his family, wife, Samantha (Smith) Merkey; daughter, Victoria R. Merkey; son, John R. Merkey; father, John A. Merkey; brother, Brad Merkey, and the surrounding community.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 23rd from 10:00am to 12:00pm with a celebration of life service beginning at 12:00pm at Hopeland United Methodist church; 295 N. Clay Road, Lititz, PA 17543.