John Merk

John graduated from Willoughby South High School in 1988 and continued his education at John Carroll University where he majored in English and British Literature with a minor in Art History. He graduated from John Carroll in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

John started a small contracting business in 1999 that provided quality service to families in Northeast Ohio. It was after his father’s death in 2010 that John was called to serve at a higher spiritual level, and in 2012, began a career, vocation, as a funeral director. He is currently president of Ohio Funeral Directors Association District 19, and a Master Director, Celebrant, and Memorial Specialist at Behm Family Funeral Home.

A musician and song writer, John began studying piano when he was 4 years old. This study led to a love of all music, and provided a foundation to grow into voice training and performance. He also plays the French Horn, Guitar, and Organ. John is a liturgical musician and organist at St. Cyprian Parish in Perry since 2007.

John married his love, Yih-ting, whom he met through his parish priest. Yih-ting has a Masters in Applied Social Science from Case Western Reserve, and before coming to America, she had been a special education teacher and would often volunteer her time at home and abroad. She has devoted her life to helping others. John and Yih-ting are thankful for 2 beautiful children and dear family both near and far.

The Merk family is happy and blessed to be with Behm Funeral Home, and looks forward to serving the community for years to come….