Richard L. Zerkel, age 88 of Lima, passed at 10:55 p.m., Saturday, October 27, 2018 at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus. He was born March 8, 1931 in Cridersville to the late Leroy and Ruth Irene Mertz Zerkel. On July 13, 1968 he married Martha C. Baldwin, who survives.
Mr. Zerkel retired from the Lima City Police Department and was a U. S. Army Korean Veteran. After retirement he started R.L. Zerkel Striping, enjoyed woodworking, scroll sawing, and watching football and NASCAR. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Police Lodge #21, the Korean War Veteran Association, the V.F.W. Post 1275 of Lima, the American Legion Post #96, and the Police and Fire Retirees all of Lima.
Also surviving is a daughter – Nancy (Jay) Adams, DVM of Cincinnati; a brother – Gary (Shirlee) Zerkel of Lima; 2 sisters – Delores (Darwin) Duff of KY; Mary Lou Neff of Wapakoneta; 5 nieces and 3 nephews.
He was preceded in death by a sister and brother-in-law – Mary (Art) Pierce.
Memorial services will begin 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 31, 2018 at Bayliff & Son Funeral Home Cridersville. Rev. Rick Lamb will officiate. Military rites will be observed by V.F.W. Post 1275 of Lima.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Equestrian Therapy Program or to the Donor’s Choice.