Kimberly S. Merkel, 44, of Kutztown, died Tuesday, January 5, 2021, as a result of complications of Marfans Syndrome.  She was the daughter of Shirley A. (Unangst) Burkhart and the late John D. Merkel.  Kimberly was born in Allentown.

Kimberly was a member of Mount Zion Lutheran Church, Kutztown.  She was a graduate of Kutztown Area High School, Class of 1994.  Kim was employed as a Medical Technologist / Certified Nursing Assistant for Genesis Health Care - Lehigh Commons, Macungie, for 23 years, last working October 14, 2020.

In her spare time, Kim enjoyed cross stitch, Sudoku, jigsaw puzzles, NASCAR, and was a voracious reader.  Kim was a lifetime member of Virginville Grange.  Kimberly enjoyed camping with her family, and taking day-trips.

Kimberly is survived by her mother, Shirley A. Burkhart, with whom she resided; a sister, Tracee L. (Merkel), wife of Rodney R. Hackman, Lancaster County.  There is also a niece, Leeya Burk and companion Kevin Little; and two nephews, R. J. and Johnathan Hackman.  There is also a great niece, Maya Lee Little.  There are also several aunts, uncles, cousins that survive.  In addition to her father, John, Kimberly was predeceased by her step father, Dennis D. Burkhart, and her sister, Deanna L. (Merkel) Burk.

A funeral service to celebrate Kimberly's life will be held on Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., from Mount Zion Lutheran Church, 1343 Long Lane Road, Kutztown, with Vicar Jeremiah T. Heydt. Interment in Dunkels Church Cemetery, Kutztown.  Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the church.  Attendees are required to wear facial coverings and practice CDC guidelines regarding social distancing.

The family requests contributions be made in Kimberly's memory to National Marfans Foundation, 22 Manhasset Ave, Port Washington, NY 11050, or on-line at www.marfan.org/give.

Ludwick Funeral Homes, Inc., Kutztown, is in charge of arrangements.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.Ludwickfh.com.