Merle Joseph Eschman III

Merle Joseph Eschman III, 83, passed away on July 3, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer. Born on November 15, 1942, Merle lived a life defined by family, craftsmanship, and a lifelong passion for automobiles and racing. A gifted fabricator and car builder, he earned the admiration of fellow enthusiasts throughout the racing and hot rod community. His beautifully crafted 1933 Ford coupe received national recognition, including earning a prestigious Builder's Choice Award at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus. Racing was a lifelong passion that connected him with countless friends. Merle was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Madelyn G. (Leabscher) Eschman, whose memory he cherished every day. He is survived by his loving son, Merle Eschman IV (Amy); grandchildren, Megan (David) Neumaier, Melissa Eschman, and Matthew Eschman; great-granddaughters, Julia Rae Neumaier and Piper Madelyn Neumaier, who brought him endless pride and joy; his brother, James Eschman (Dolores); and his sister, Mary Eileen (Dennis) Hall. Outside of the garage and the racetrack, Merle found companionship in his faithful Great Dane, Leo, who was rarely far from his side. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Merle’s memory to the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) to support cancer research, or to the Great Dane Rescue Alliance to help rescue and care for Great Danes in need. Arrangements entrusted to Slater Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. Sharpsburg.