William J. Merlavage

William "Wild Bill" Merlavage, a true Mt. Carmel legend, passed away on September 21, 2026. Born on April 9, 1935, to the late Frank Miranowicz and Martha Kerdock, Bill lived a life defined by honest work, an independent spirit, and a deep connection to the outdoors.

Wild Bill didn't just walk through life; he cleared his own trail, often striding through in a favorite pair of cowboy boots. A U.S. Army veteran who served overseas, Bill carried his service modestly, letting his deeds speak for themselves. As a proud lifetime laborer with Laborers' Local 158, he built his life on hard work, unbreakable strength, and a strong work ethic. His grit was unmatched, but his time on the job site was only one chapter of his story.

Out in the wild, Bill was completely in his element. He was a master hunter who knew the woods inside and out, an angler who could read any water, and a genuine gold prospector with an unyielding eye for the glitter in the silt. Equal parts rugged outdoorsman and sharp-minded thinker, he was also a self-taught expert on herbal supplements and vitamins, always ready with a custom natural remedy, a strong opinion, and health advice for anyone wise enough to listen.

Of all the treasure he unearthed and stories he crafted, nothing meant more to him than his bond with his wife, Charlotte Merlavage. The pair recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary, a landmark of enduring devotion, shared laughter, and unbreakable partnership that served as the anchor of his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Miranowicz and Martha Kerdock, and his brothers and sisters, Dolores, Geraldine (Cookie), Raymond (Nookim), Ronald (Simon), Jeana, Jerome (Fin), and Rosemarie.

He is survived by the love of his life, Charlotte Merlavage; his children, Michelle Robertshaw (and husband Bill Robertshaw) and Bill Merlavage Jr (and wife Diane Merlavage); granddaughter Hannah Merlavage; great-grandson Jace Winters; as well as a tight-knit network of lifelong friends, relatives and fellow outdoorsmen.

A life like his cannot be measured solely in years, but in the countless stories left behind, the trails blazed, and the indelible mark he made on everyone lucky enough to cross his path.

Funeral arrangements will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of C J Lucas Funeral Home Inc., 27 N. Vine St., Mt. Carmel, PA 17851, C J Lucas IV, Supervisor. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.cjlucasfuneralhome.com