Johnny Joe Merkord, 72, of Hutto, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022.
Johnny was born on March 24, 1949, in Granger to Alfred Merkord and Mary Fojtik. He grew up with two sisters and one brother in Thrall. He attended Thrall High School, where he also played football and graduated in the late 60s. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in March 1969. He spent one year and seven months overseas fighting for our country in the Vietnam War from which he received many medals and commendations. Among them include the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam service medal, the Vietnam campaign medal, the Army commendation medal, the Bronze Star medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge. He was honorably discharged from service in March 1975.
After he was sent home from the Vietnam War in October 1970, he met Patricia Biddy on a blind date, and they got married on June 12, 1971. Together, they had three children, Lisa Kay, Laurie Ann and John Michael. Johnny spent 28 years working for Al Clawson disposal. Johnny and Patsy spent their retirement in their home in Hutto, hosting cookouts for family and spending time playing pool or swimming. He also enjoyed watching football and sitting out by the firepit. Above all, Johnny treasured family gatherings, and time spent with his grandkids.
Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Norma and Alfred; his daughter, Laurie Ann; and his wife, Patricia Merkord.
He is survived by two children, Lisa Kay and John Michael; and six grandchildren, Darren, Madison, Rebekah, Melody, Trey and Tyler.
Serving as Pallbearers are Darren Merkord, Chris Biddy, Christopher Jr., Bryan Preece, JT Biddy and Nicholas Biddy.
