Merle E. Aikens

Merle E. Aikens, 87, of Punxsutawney, passed away on December 12, 2024 at Mahoning Riverside Manor in Punxsutawney.

Merle was born in Punxsutawney on August 24, 1937. He graduated from Punxsutawney Area High School and went on to make a career in the construction industry, retiring from Halstrom Construction as a General Superintendent.

Merle was married November 8, 1958 to Judy G. (Kromer) Aikens who preceded him in death in 2008. Together they raised four children. Along with his wife, Merle enjoyed socializing and polka dancing. Merle was a faithful listener of the Sunday Polka Party with Big Moose. He enjoyed spending time riding his motorcycle with friends. He was a member of the Punxsutawney Moose Lodge, a longtime member of the Lindsey Fire Company, a retired member of the Carpenters and Joiners Union Local 423. Merle was a man of many skills and was always busy working in his garden, building or repairing something, helping someone or hunting with his family.

Merle is survived by three sons; Greg Aikens and wife Michele of Punxsutawney, Randy Aikens of Windber and Roger Aikens of Danville and one daughter; Kathy Brubaker and husband Rusty of Rochester Mills, thirteen grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Judy, he was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Mary Kanouff, a daughter in law, Traci Aikens, a brother-in-law, Randall Kromer and sister-in-law, Helen Kromer.

Friends will be received Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024 from 2pm until the time of service at 6pm at the McCabe Funeral Home, Inc., 114 Maple Avenue, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. 

Interment will take place at Round Top Cemetery in Smicksburg.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Aikens’ memory to the Lindsey Fire Hall or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

To offer condolences or to share a memory, please visit www.mccabewaldronfh.com.