Michael Garrett Merck

Michael Garrett Merck ("Pawpaw"), age 64, died February 5th, 2026, on his property in Bostic, NC, just as he wished. He was born in Rutherford Co. NC to the late Elizabeth Merck Cash (Lib) and Clyde C. Merck, Jr. He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, father, brother Kenneth Clyde ("Buddy") Merck and nephew Scott Merck.

Survivors are one special daughter and son, one stepson, four grandchildren and a granddaughter in law (Derek Skipper and his wife Lydia Skipper, Eli Skipper, Gabi Skipper, McKenzie Merck) and three great grandchildren (Myles Skipper, Marlee Skipper, and Milena Skipper), He also had three sisters and a sister in-law, Gerry Merck (Jody) of Utica, NE, Debbie Mills (Ray) of Redding, CA, Donna Martin (Calvin) of Utica, NE and Billie Merck (Buddy) of Ellenboro, NC, He also had a special aunt, Judy Martin. Michael was previously married to Alice Merck (Nana) of Ellenboro, NC and had two beloved children, Stephanie Skipper and Garrett Merck (Harriett). He also had a special stepson, Eric Rollins (Jade).

Pawpaw gave his life to the Lord at Concord Baptist Church when he was a young boy. He was a member of Fellowship Holiness Church for about 2 years. He was also formerly employed with C.F. Reese of 32 years as a supervisor and crane operator.

Michael became a "Pawpaw" at the young age of 36. He had his first grandson, Derek Austin Skipper. Pawpaw said that Derek was one of life's greatest gifts to him. Derek spent a lot of his time growing up on Pawpaw's property with his "Mawmaw Earline". Pawpaw taught Derek how to fix things. He also taught him a lot of important life lessons and encouraged him to live the right way. Derek will never forget the day he told Pawpaw he would be a great granddad. He also loved his other grandchildren dearly- Eli, Gabi, and Mackenzie and wanted the best for all of their lives.

At the end of his life, Pawpaw had a special caregiver and girlfriend named Margie Campbell. Jared White who Pawpaw looked at like a grandson also participated in his end of life care. The Skipper family is grateful for the loving care and concern they had for Pawpaw at the end of his life. Pawpaw had a love for life. Throughout his time here, Pawpaw went skydiving, hunting, fishing, and golfing. He loved music, the beach, laughing, having fun, and singing. He came from a musical family and could play the harmonica and spoons. He could fix anything he got his hands on. He will be missed for his quick-wit, marvelous sense of humor and the love and pride he had for his children.

There will be a celebration of life service for Pawpaw at 12:00pm on Saturday, February 14th at Concord Baptist Church in Bostic, NC with Reverend Travis Laflin and Reverend Tim Elmore officiating. The visitation will be from 11:00 am-11:45 am prior. The burial will be private for family on Pawpaw's property just as he wished. In the spirit of Pawpaw, the Skipper family asks for those that would like to wear overalls to do so. Pawpaw would want nothing more than for us to have fun and love the Lord and love the life and time we have been given.