It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our retired brother, Robert ‘Bob’ Merkov Sr., on August 7th, 2026.
As an Aviation Maintenance Technician who joined American Airlines in 1989, Bob spent many years serving our airline and our members. His dedication and expertise earned him the distinction of becoming a Technical Crew Chief in 1997, a position he held until his retirement in 2008.
As we mourn the loss of our dear brother, we extend our deepest sympathies to the Merkov family. May they find comfort in the knowledge that Bob lived a life filled with purpose and service to others.
Rest in peace, brother. Your presence will be deeply missed.
Obituary
Robert Terrence Merkov Sr., lovingly known as Bob, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on November 5, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bob lived a life marked by service, dedication, adventure, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
Bob attended North Catholic High School in Philadelphia from 1963 to 1967 before beginning a distinguished twenty-year career in the United States Army. He enlisted in May 1967 and retired in June 1987 with the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC). During his military service, Bob served three tours in Vietnam and three tours in Germany. His duties included long-range training and assignments as a nuclear weapons technician. Throughout his travels and military career, Germany held a special place in his heart, and he often referred to Wertheim, Germany, as his second home.
Bob met the love of his life, Judith Jean Walk, at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He often stated that Judy was an angel who saved his life after his time in Vietnam. Bob and Judy married on May 17, 1973, with Bob’s son, Robert “Bobby” Merkov Jr., in attendance. Together, they built a loving family and welcomed two children, Angela Marie and Daniel Christian. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and devotion until Judy’s passing on January 22, 2019.
Angela later married Ricky Ray Sparkman, and Daniel married Christen Danielle Sloan. Bob was a proud grandfather to Timothy Young Merkov, son of Robert “Bobby” Merkov Jr., Elizabeth Angeline Merkov, Viktoria Rose Merkov, and Alexander Jaxon Merkov, children of Daniel Christian and Christen Danielle Merkov. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, and he cherished every opportunity to share stories, laughter, and lessons with them.
Following his military retirement, Bob moved his family to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he began a second successful career in aviation. After training at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, he joined American Airlines in 1989 and worked there until his retirement in 2009. As a Technical Crew Chief, Bob earned the respect of colleagues through his expertise, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence. Even after retirement, he continued sharing his knowledge as a consultant, mentoring and training others in the aviation industry.
Bob was a man of tremendous strength, integrity, and generosity. Whether serving his country, supporting his family, or teaching others, he believed that knowledge was meant to be shared and that helping people succeed was one of life’s greatest rewards. He was deeply proud of his military service, his aviation career, and most importantly, his family.
While many knew him as Sergeant First Class Merkov, Technical Crew Chief, mentor, husband, father, and grandfather, those closest to him knew him affectionately as “Monkey Bob.” The nickname reflected the fun-loving spirit, humor, and unique personality that brought smiles to family gatherings and left lasting memories with all who knew him. Despite his many accomplishments, it was his love for people, his stories, and his generous heart that defined him most.
Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith “Judy” Jean Walk Merkov on January 22, 2019.
He is survived by his children, Robert “Bobby” Merkov Jr.; Angela Marie Sparkman and her husband, Ricky Ray Sparkman; and Daniel Christian Merkov and his wife, Christen Danielle Sloan Merkov. He is also
survived by his cherished grandchildren, Timothy “Timmy” Young Merkov, son of Robert “Bobby” Merkov Jr.; Elizabeth Angeline Merkov, Viktoria Rose Merkov, and Alexander Jaxon “A.J.” Merkov, children of Daniel Christian and Christen Danielle Merkov; along with countless family members, friends, fellow veterans, and colleagues who will treasure his memory.
Bob requested a simple farewell. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no visitation or formal service. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects are invited to attend his burial on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5111 S. Memorial Drive, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Those who knew and loved Bob will undoubtedly hear his familiar advice one more time: “Have a drink, you’ll feel better.”
Bob often said that Judy was the angel who saved his life. Today, those who loved them both take comfort in imagining Judy welcoming him home with open arms and saying, “I’ve missed you, my love. Welcome home.”