Chelsea Resident Joe Merkel Remembered for Service to Community

Joe Merkel, a long-time Chelsea resident and business owner, died on Jan. 18 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.

Merkel, 66, was the owner of Wolverine Food & Spirits, and a former Chelsea Village Council trustee.

Bill Harrison, a close friend of Merkel, said Merkel's death will leave a large void in the Chelsea community.

"Few people have had the impact on a community that Joe Merkel had on Chelsea. From the community fair, to the village council, and of course the family business. I have known Joe for more than 40 years, and Chelsea will not see the likes of him again," Harrison said.

Chelsea resident Reuben Lesser, who has known Merkel for many years, said he was a past fair board member, and will be remembered for his community involvement.

“He didn’t look for any public recognition,” Lesser told Chelsea Update. “When he saw a need, he just took care of it.”

When he wasn't busy volunteering at the fair, Merkel could often be found at his restaurant, hosting fundraisers for local community groups and charities.

Resident Rin Flannery said she will always remember her first interaction with Merkel as an employee.

"Joe was my first real boss, and what he taught me about waitressing (and having a good work ethic) enabled me to put myself through college, working at high-end restaurants. I also remember many heart-to-hearts with him. He was a great guy," she said.

A mass will be celebrated on Jan. 23 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or the St. Louis Center.