Merle Chaapel, 71, of Troy, Pa., passed away, Monday, July 22, 2019 at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, NY. Merle was born December 2, 1947 in Elmira, NY, to the late Roy and Alma (Colton) Chaapel. He attended Troy High School and was a graduate of the class of 1965. Upon graduating Merle enlisted in the United States Army and honorably served in Vietnam. On July 19, 1969 he married the love of his life, Judy Blackwell at the 1st Presbyterian Church in Troy. They were blessed to have celebrated 50 years together and raised two children. Merle was employed by Troy Borough Water and Sewer Authority for nearly 26 years until his retirement in 2010. He was a member of the Troy Vets Club VFW Post 8675 and American Legion Post 49, Troy Masonic Lodge 306, Sundowner's Club on Armenia Mountain, and served as a board member on Bradford County Sanitation Committee. Merle enjoyed the outdoors, especially his work on his yard and around the house. Most important was the times spent with his family, friends and watching and going to Nascar racing.

Besides his parents, Merle was predeceased by his brothers; Russell, Martin and Roy Jr. "Chick" Chaapel and a sister, Joanna Chapman.

He is survived by his wife; Judy Chaapel, his daughter; Kimberly Chaapel his son; Ryan (Danika) Chaapel all of Troy, two grandchildren; Jonathan and Olivia Chaapel, two step-grandchildren; Takoda and Walker Kelley, three siblings; Richard Chaapel of Elmira, NY, Ernest (Norma) Chaapel of Coryland, and Paul "Pappy" Chaapel of Troy, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

A memorial service to honor Merle's life will be held 11 A.M. Saturday, July 27, 2019, at the Austinville Union Church, 2977 Austinville Road, Troy, Pa 16947 with Reverend Kenneth Marple officiating and full military honors presented. Burial will be private in Troy's Glenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Merle's name to the Austinville Union Church, 2977 Austinville Road, Troy, Pa 16947 or the Troy Vets Club,1 Veterans Drive, Troy, Pa 16947. Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility in Canton, Pa. is assisting the family with arrangements. Share memories and condolences at www.pepperfuneralhomes.com