William K. Mearkle

On February 4, 2025, following a long journey of the heart, William K. Mearkle, 73, of Clearville, PA, left his family to join the angels.

Bill’s lifetime of adventure began 05/23/1951 as the oldest child of Dale and Mabel (Bernhard) Mearkle.  He graduated from Everett Area High School in 1969. On December 21, 2003, Bill married Kimberly A. Ritchey celebrating with a wedding trip to Australia and New Zealand – the first of countless happy explorations as Mr. and Mrs. Mearkle. Throughout their marriage they continued to enjoy traveling the world and skiing on every mountain that they could possibly ski. Bill found the perfect partner in Kim as they both had wanderlust to explore new destinations and shared a love for adventure.

Bill started Mearkle Masonry and Construction when he was barely out of high school, owning and operating the business for more than 50 years. He became a well-respected and sought after contractor and mason, satisfying customers with the quality and preciseness of his craftsmanship. It is well known that if Bill Mearkle built your foundation, the floor will not crack and the walls will not leak. He was a perfectionist at his trade.

Some of Bill’s favorite and softest moments were with his grandchildren. He loved it when they came running to him, calling out “Pappy” and giving great big bear hugs. Bill looked forward to spending time at their home in Florida, enjoying the river and the warm temperatures in winter months. Since he had spent many long and cold days working in the brittle Pennsylvania weather, this was a nice reprieve. He also loved spending quiet time as well as entertaining at the family cabin. Bill was blessed with a loving family and many great friends. There was much laughter and many good times over the years at all his favorite places – home, cabin, Florida, and flying his kitfox – proving it’s not the place you’re at that brings happiness. It is the people you surround yourself with. Bill seemed to have the world at his fingertips. One friend said, “Bill lived life to the fullest. He left no stone unturned.”

In addition to work ethic, Bill will be remembered by so many for his quick wit and charming smile; quiet ways that made others feel good. Anyone who met him loved him. Each time he had a hospital stay, the nurses on floor 9D greeted him with big smiles.

In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by children Clint and partner Chelsea, and their daughters Adalynne and Savannah; Cody and wife Chelsee, daughter Saylor, son Sutton, and a child on the way in April; a sister Karen Colledge and her husband Joel; and a brother, Randy Mearkle.

Prior to his passing, Bill said goodbye to both parents, a brother Dennis Mearkle, and a son Craig Mearkle.

Friends and family wishing to honor Bill’s memory will be welcomed at the Akers Funeral Home, Inc. 299 Raystown Road, Everett on Monday, February 10, 2025 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM and on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the hour of service at the funeral home.

Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Akers Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Snyder officiating.

Burial will be held at the Everett Cemetery. A time of refreshments and fellowship will be held at the Breezewood Firehall following the graveside services.

Bill would be pleased for memorial contributions to be made in his memory to the Everett Senior Center, 101 West Main Street Everett, PA 15537.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.akersfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.