Merik Austin Bendig Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Merik Austin Bendig of Vermilion, Ohio, born in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, who passed away on October 14, 2025, at the age of 20, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his grandparents, Bill and Patricia A. Bendig; and his uncle Anthony Louis Gavel. He is survived by: his parents, Marc Bendig of Vermilion and Marlena Gavel of Vermilion; his brother Meighler Anthony Bendig of Vermilion; his significant other Audra Klempay; his grandmother Mary Jo Gavel; his aunts and uncles, Bill Gavel, Melissa Gavel, Andrew Gavel, Benjamin Gavel, Michael Bendig, Michele Bendig-Brown and Mary Foley; his cousin Jeremy Brown; and his friends, John, Antonio DelMonico and Austin Hamilton-Kroesen.
A celebration of life was held on Friday, October 24th 2025 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Riddle Funeral Home (5345 South St, Vermilion, OH 44089). A memorial service was held on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 4:00 PM at the same location.
In honor of Merik's giving heart, memorial contributions may be made to his GoFundMe (https://www.gofundme.com), where funds will be used to help the family and purchase bicycles for children in need within the Vermilion community-a lasting tribute to his love for helping others.
