Craig Merkey, holding the bucket, performs a team-building exercise with his staff.
Craig Merkey, an aquatics veteran and long-time active member of the Association of Aquatic Professionals, passed away of heart failure April 28 at his home. He was a month from his 52nd birthday.
Those who don’t know Merkey may recognize his friendly face, as a long-time AOAP volunteer who always helped work the organization’s marquee conference. He served on the AOAP Board for 15 years, including as its President, and on several committees and initiatives.
In 2023, when Merkey led the organization, he was honored in Aquatics International’s Power Issue.. That year’s issue specifically honored those who quietly influence the industry by working behind the scenes or otherwise affecting important change without the accolades others might receive. Indeed, Merkey accomplished plenty: During his tenure as president, for example, AOAP added a deputy director position, launched its director’s school, grew its Board of Directors, and increased exhibitors on its trade-show floor.
In an interview for his Power Issue profile, Merkey said a sense of community was instilled in him at a young age. That showed in his volunteer work, AOAP said.
“He had a remarkable ability to make people feel included, valued, and encouraged to become involved,” the organization said in a tribute. “… Craig made an impact that extended far beyond the work itself. His smile, sense of humor, and genuine kindness became a familiar and cherished part of the AOAP community.”
Merkey had recently cofounded a company called Aquatics by Design, which teaches learn-to-swim classes and provides lifeguard training.
Before that, he was employed by Penn State Harrisburg for 15 years as its Associate Director of Recreation & Aquatics.
He also served as the auditor of Clay Township.
Craig A. Merkey was born May 23, 1974 in Ephrata, Pa., where he graduated high school. Drawn to aquatics from his first swim lesson, he assisted with swim instruction and became a lifeguard as a teen. He received his bachelors degree in Education and Recreation at Pennsylvania’s Lock Haven University, and earned a Masters in Higher Education at Pennsylvania State University. His plan was to teach
during the school year and work at pools during the summer. After receiving his bachelors degree, he worked as assistant director of a camp, then taught fifth and sixth grade for a few years. He then took his position with Penn State Harrisburg. In addition to his work there, he was known for his active involvement in various committees and events, such as commencement or setting up testing as the campus prepared to re-open following the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Merkey enjoyed camping, working on his trucks, and performing community service, including as a member of the local Lions Club for 31 years, and the advisor of the Ephrata Intermediate/Middle School Leo Club for 19 years.
Merkey is survived by his wife, Samantha (Smith) Merkey; children Victoria R. and John R. Merkey; father, John A. Merkey; and brother, Brad Merkey.
“While his loss leaves an immeasurable void, Craig’s legacy will continue through the countless lives he influenced, the professionals he encouraged, and the community he helped build,” AOAP said.
