Steve F. Merk

Stephen F. “Steve” Merk, 63, of Madison Township, Bremen, passed away on Sunday February 8, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. 

Steve was born on May 24, 1962, to Joseph and Marianne (Benson) Merk.

On July 3, 1986, he married his wife, Brenda in Las Vegas, Nevada.  They would have celebrated 40 years together this July.  

Steve’s career was spent behind the wheel of a semi.  He worked hard and always provided for his family.  Steve could always be found in his pole barn enjoying a cold Busch Light.  You could usually find at least one of his buddies out there with him. 

In addition to being survived by his wife, Brenda, his mother, Marianne, and his golden retriever, Charlie; Steve is also survived by two daughters: Cassie (Kenny) Bernard and Christina (Jake) Landrigan.  Also surviving are his 9 grandchildren: Jacob and Isabelle Rhodes, Trissa Gayheart, Hallie and Kenlie Cook, Hannah and Sarah Landrigan, and Dalton and Layne Bernard. He is also survived by his brothers: Paul and Ron. 

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Joseph. 

Visitation for Steve will be held from 4pm-7pm on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Palmer Funeral Home inside the Palmer Community Complex, 601 N. Michigan St. in Lakeville.  Visitation will also be held from 11am-12pm on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the funeral home with a funeral service beginning at 12pm.  Burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. 

The family is also planning a celebration of life in his pole barn for a later date per Steve’s very specific request. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Pet Refuge.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to Heart to Heart hospice, especially Steve’s CNA, Cassie. 

Online condolences to the family may be sent via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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