Merle A. Rotz

Merle A. Rotz, Sr., 84, formerly of Shippensburg, late of Carlisle, departed this life on the morning of Thursday, January 16, 2025, at his home.

He was born on December 16, 1940, in Chambersburg, a son of the late Melvin J. and Lillian B. (Helm) Rotz. Merle married Mary S. Miller on November 9, 1963, in Hagerstown, MD.

Merle worked as a machinist at SKF Industries, formerly of Shippensburg, for thirty years, retiring in 1995. He had a life-long passion for bowling, at which he became very good at, winning countless awards and accolades throughout his life. Merle also liked to ride motorcycles, taking many trips throughout the country with his wife, Mary.

In addition to his wife of sixty-one years, Mary, he is survived by three daughters, Sherry Rotz-Smith of Shippensburg, Sheila Riley and husband Delbert of Harrisburg, and Yvette Piccolo and husband Edward of Carlisle; three children from his first marriage, Merle, Marlene, and Keith; six grandchildren, Seth Smith, Wynter Smith, Sean Piccolo and wife Amanda, Trustin Riley, Shannon Piccolo, and Elisha Riley; a brother, Richard G. Rotz of Shippensburg; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Merle was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria J. Cassidy.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Fogelsanger-Bricker Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc., Shippensburg. Pastor John Byers will officiate. Interment will follow in the Cumberland Valley Memorial Gardens, Carlisle. Viewing will be one hour prior to the service on Thursday morning at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association: Greater Pennsylvania Chapter - Harrisburg Office at 9378, 2595 Interstate Dr. Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17110.