Dr. Paul Merkley

Passed away suddenly on December 27 at the age of 88 due to pneumonia in the town of Kemptville, Ontario. He is predeceased by his parents Ernest (1985) and Jean (1999) and his younger brother David (2021). He leaves behind his loving wife of 61 years, Gwen (nee Barton). He will be lovingly remembered by his children; Michele (Milton), Bob, Sharon and Amy (Richard). His Grandchildren; Becky (Thomas), Maxwell, Caitlin, Matthew as well as his great granddaughter Sophia. His brother Ernie (Shelia) and his sister Diane (John) and his sister-in-law Lawrie (Simon). He will also be missed by his many nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Paul will be remembered as a lover of not only those near and dear to him, but also a lover of music. He especially loved playing and performing the clarinet in a number of settings. He was also passionate about history and religion. He taught American History at the University of Toronto; Fresno State College in California followed by a permanent position at Carlton University in 1968 until he retired in 1999. He was on the board for Harvest House in Ottawa and spent time doing volunteer work for them as well.  He had several books published throughout his career focused mostly on politics and religion. He spent many of his years traveling several different areas of the world but most frequently visited Israel for both work and pleasure including being a visiting professor at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. A service will be held Thursday January 5th beginning at 2:00pm at All Saints Lutheran Church in Ottawa followed by a small reception.  For those wishing, donations may be made to Harvest House Ottawa.