Renee Elane Merkl, 61

To view Renee’s memorial video, click here.
Renee Elane Merkl, 61, of Middleburg, FL passed away Wednesday, October 26, 2022.  Renee was born in Lansing, MI to the late Thomas Shamka and Nancy Launer.   She graduated from Carpinteria High School.  Renee lived in Michigan, Arizona and California before settling in Florida two years ago.  She was a cheer coach in South Haven, Michigan and worked at Van Til’s Greenhouse in southwest Michigan.  Renee spent over 16 years at Home Depot as a specialty department manager, most recently at their Oakleaf store. 

Renee was very crafty and loved to paint.  She always enjoyed a trip to the beach whether it be to the lake or the ocean.  Renee also liked going to Disney and was able to visit both Disneyland and Disney World.  Her annual girls trip to California wineries was one of her favorite things to do.  When Renee loved, she loved with her whole heart.  

Renee was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Shamka.  She is survived by her mother, Nancy Shirley (Richard); bonus mom, Carol Carlson (Lief); two daughters, Rachel Elizabeth Campitiello (Anthony) and Sarah Tracy (Adam); four brothers, Ron Shamka (Dianna), Chuck Shamka (Linda), Steve Shamka (Jeannie), and Rick Wray; four grandchildren, Halli Campitiello, Nicco Campitiello, Caroline Tracy, and Waylon Tracy; best friend, Betty Weiss; and her two beloved cats, Christopher and Priscilla.  

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 29, 2022 at 11am in the chapel at Russell Haven of Rest with Patrick Martin officiating.  Visitation with the family will be at 10am.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made in Renee‘s memory to Seamark Ranch, https://www.seamarkranch.com/donate-index-impact.  

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043.  

904-284-7720       www.rhrfh.com