Janet Merkle passed away on March 28, 2025, at Rolling Hills Healthcare, with family by her side. Janet was born in Deadwood, SD, on December 16, 1946. She was primarily raised in Spearfish, but her family moved to Pierre, SD, for 4 years during the building of the Oahe Dam. While in Pierre she enjoyed waterskiing with a local club and raising a blue heron. After high school, Janet attended BHSU for 4 years, and went on to teach in Hayes, SD for two years, and later in Midland, SD for 3 years. On August 1, 1970, she married Ron Merkle.
After Janet’s father passed away, the family moved back to Spearfish and sold the Colorado Spruce he had planted. They built 2 greenhouses, and Janet began to sell flowers. Eventually, they began a nursery, calling it “Gage’s Gardens”, and continuing the family tradition of farming in Spearfish Valley. Janet always had a love for animals, and they loved her as well. She loved her horses and always had a dog by her side.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Olive (Sloan) Gage & Robert Gage, and her brother, Charles Gage. Those who will continue to share her memories include her husband, Ron Merkle; and their children, Robert Merkle, James Merkle, Kaylee Merkle and Tawnia Merkle.
The visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 11AM-12PM, in the Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel. Following the visitation, Pastor Jim Roberts will officiate the Memorial Service that will commence at 12PM.
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel of Spearfish, SD.
