Obituary for Poksun Merck

Poksun (Pak) Merck passed away on March 8, 2026 surrounded by her family.

Poksun was born on April 25, 1940 in the Jung District of Seoul, South Korea, where she resided with her parents and three brothers. Much later in life, she met Maynard Maurice Merck, an Army Artillery Specialist stationed in Seoul. They were married at the Korean Embassy in May of 1969, and soon after moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Maynard and Poksun or "Sun" as Maynard lovingly called her, have two children together; twins Tim and Arlene.

Although she rarely spoke of her life in Korea, she was fortunate to be able to visit her three brothers on ocassion, whom she was very proud of. "Sun" spent her entire life devoted to the love and care of her family. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, crocheting, picnics, collecting green stamps back in the day, and holiday gatherings more than anything.

Her favorite moments were when she was surrounded by family and friends: her husband, children, grandchildren, son-in-law Conrad, and soon to be daughter-in-law Colena. She had only a small group that she allowed into her world. They know who they are, friends and family, old and new.

Poksun was preceded in death by her husband Maynard after nearly 57 years together. She was also preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her children, Tim (Colena) and Arlene (Conrad), and four grandchildren: Kayla, Tyler, Enzo, and Brooklyn. We still hear her voice and remember how her face lit up every single time she saw us.