Merle L. Rhoads

Merle L. Rhoads, 89 of Oley, formerly of Wernersville, passed away on June 29, 2026 at Parkhouse Nursing and Rehab Center, Royersford, PA.  He was the companion of Dolores J. (Koch) Grubb who passe away in 2025.  Born in Upper Bern Twp., PA., he was the son of the late Luther R. and Kathryn (Klopp) Rhoads.  Merle  was a US Army Veteran where he received medals for Good Conduct, Marksman and Sharpshooter and was discharged in 1965.

He was a life member of the Berks County Fire Police Assoc. Merle was a Fire Police Captain of Exeter Twp., PA and also a commander of Zone 5 as well as Fire Police for Spring Twp.  He worked for Firestone, Stanley Flag, Baldwin Brass and a Crossing Guard for Wilson School District where he also was a School Bus Aide. 

He was predeceased by a sister, Thelma L. Daub and a brother, Ralph R. Rhoads.  

Surviving are his children, James L. Rhoads, Oley, PA, Kelly L. wife of David Heller, Earl Twp., PA., Kimberly L. wife of Matthew Herndon, Douglassville, PA; brothers, Arlan husband of Michele, St. Lawrence, Stanley R. Rhoads, Centerport, PA, Verna J. wife of Francis Miller, Hamburg, PA, Phyllis L widow of Jerry Miller, Canada, Evelyn M. Ulrich, Fleetwood, PA, Linda E. wife of Charles Stewart, Tilden Twp., PA; Grandchildren, Devon Mahr, Justin Mahr and Logan Herndon.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Cramp Hummel Funeral Home, 934 Centre Ave., Reading. A viewing will be from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the funeral home.  Interment with military honors will be at Forest Hills Memorial Park.  Online photos and memories can be shared with his family at www.cramp-hummelfuneralhome.com

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