Dr. Don Merki died February 19 at his home in Chapel Hill, NC, following a brief illness. A native of Chicago, IL, he attended St. Joseph’s College in Indiana and the University of Illinois. He taught at Texas A&M in College Station, TX, and Texas Women’s University in Denton, TX, for 17 years, continually recognized as a top teacher with a strong commitment to public service. Throughout his life, Dr. Merki educated people of all ages about their mental health and physical well-being and was largely responsible for the incorporation of Health Education into public schools as a requirement for graduation. As a writer, Dr. Merki authored over 80 articles, 15 books and dozens of curriculum guides and materials for states and school districts in all areas of preventive health. His goal was getting people to take responsibility for their own lives, especially in the prevention of disease and promotion of healthy living. Don Merki leaves his beloved wife, Betsy Conger Merki; six children, sons Don, Mark, Dan, Michael and daughters Christine Merki and Ann Skaja; two stepsons Dave West and Parker West; eight grandchildren; as well as many friends, colleagues and former students. Memorial services will be held at University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill, NC, on Tuesday, February 22, at 2 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to the National Park Foundation (on-line) or by mail to 11 Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 600, Washington DC 20036.
