Staff

Dr. Daniel Merker was born and raised in Zanesville, Ohio. He attended West Muskingum High School, graduating in 1981. He chose Miami University for his undergraduate training, and in 1985, received a Bachelor of Arts degree in zoology, graduating Cum Laude. His goal to attend dental school was realized, and in 1988 he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, again graduating Cum Laude. He was invited to the faculty there and commuted to Columbus part-time to teach in the restorative dentistry department. His remaining time was spent working in his father's private practice in Zanesville. In 1989, realizing that private practice was his passion, he decided to discontinue the commute to Columbus and work solely in private practice. His father has since passed away, but Dan greatly enjoys carrying on the legacy he has left behind, side by side with his son, Dr. Brian Merker.

Dr. Dan has made an effort to remain actively involved in professional as well as community and faith-based organizations. He is a two-time past president of the Muskingum Valley Dental Society, distinguished past president of the Zanesville Kiwanis, and currently enjoys the privilege of being an elder at the Muskingum Valley Vineyard Church. He is a member in good standing with the Ohio Dental Association, as well as the American Dental Association. Dr. Dan feels honored to have been recognized by his peers and enjoys fellowship in numerous dental honorary societies such as: Omicron Kappa Upsilon, The American College of Dentists, and The Pierre Fauchard Academy.

Outside of work, Dr. Dan has several passions. First and foremost is his family. Dan has been married to his wife, Leslie, since 1986 and has two children Brian, and Mae and has 4 grandsons. Secondly is his faith and service to Jesus Christ. Dan has had numerous opportunities to combine his work with his faith, traveling with a team of people to areas of need outside of the country to share the love of Christ and provide dental care. Beyond that, he enjoys sports of any kind, and hobbies involving his hands (woodworking, stained glass, welding, auto body work, etc.)

Dr. Brian Merker was born in Zanesville, Ohio in 1989. He graduated from Tri-Valley High School in Dresden, Ohio in 2008. He did his undergraduate training at The Ohio State University. Upon completing his requirements a year early, and he then entered The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2015. He is proud to be the fourth-generation dentist in our Zanesville practice.

Dr. Brian is a member of the Ohio Dental Association, a branch of the American Dental Association. He is also a member of several conservation organizations.

Brian was married in May of 2015 to his beautiful wife Brianna. He has two boys Luke and Levi. He and his wife both enjoy the outdoors. Brian enjoys fishing, hiking, woodworking and nature. The thing that brings him the most joy is his faith in Jesus Christ, to whom he owes everything.

Anne has been an essential member of our team since 1998, serving as both a Dental Assistant and Front Office staff member for over 26 years. With her wealth of experience and dedication, Anne plays a pivotal role in fostering a welcoming atmosphere for our patients.

Anne's passion lies in forming personal connections with patients and their families. She takes pride in providing exceptional care and cherishes the relationships she has cultivated throughout her tenure.

Outside of work, Anne enjoys spending time with her husband, Jay, and their family. Recently, Anne's family welcomed a precious addition—a granddaughter, marking the first girl born into the family in 70 years. Anne's interests include dance, teaching tap, and leading community outreach programs. She looks forward to continuing her career at Merker, making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.

Since 2012, Jasmin has been a dedicated member of our team as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene from The Ohio State University and is a Certified Local Anesthetic Administrator.

Jasmin finds fulfillment in engaging with patients and building meaningful connections with them and their families, enjoying the opportunity to talk with patients, getting to know them on a personal level. Jasmin's favorite aspect of her job is treating periodontal disease, considering it a rewarding challenge that motivates her to continually learn in order to help patients maintain optimal oral health.

Outside of the office, Jasmin is married to her high school sweetheart, Adam. Together, they are proud parents to three children, Gavin, Grayson and Ivy. Jasmin also enjoys tending to her garden and caring for their farm animals.

Kassie has been a valued member of our team since 2011, serving as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene from West Liberty University and is a Certified Local Anesthetic Administrator.

Kassie's favorite part of her job is helping people live healthier lifestyles. She approaches her work with respect and love, aiming to provide exceptional service to her patients. She finds fulfillment in the opportunity to openly share her faith with patients and prioritize family first.

Kassie is married to her high school sweetheart and is a proud mother of two children, Natalie and Maverick. She spends her time as a 4-H advisor for the local 4-H club as well as being an active member in her church. She is passionate about Jesus, cooking big meals and working on their farm.

Barbara has been with us since 2014, serving as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She holds an Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from West Liberty University and is a Certified Local Anesthetic Administrator. Barbara is passionate about promoting optimal oral health, with a particular focus on flossing and fluoride. In her role, Barbara finds fulfillment in educating patients and empowering them to achieve their dental goals. She is dedicated to instilling the importance of daily flossing and educating patients on the benefits of fluoride. 

Beyond her professional aspirations, her personal goals include raising her children in a loving Christian home and passing down cooking traditions. She also enjoys hobbies such as crocheting and knitting. She can even cross running a half marathon off of her list.

Mae has been an integral part of our team since 2014, serving as Supply Manager and Auxiliary Assistant. She is also an Ohio State Dental Board Certified Dental Radiographer. As a fourth-generation member of our dental practice, Mae embodies our commitment to excellence and family values. Mae cherishes the relationships she has with her coworkers and patients, making her favorite part of the job the connections she forms with others. Her vibrant personality brightens our office every day.

Beyond her professional duties, Mae's faith is central to her life, followed closely by her family and friends. Mae finds joy in spending time with her family and has a deep-rooted passion for the outdoors and can often be found enjoying walks or hikes. In her free time, she indulges in activities such as cooking, reading, shopping, and drinking coffee.

Laycee has been with us since October 2019, proudly working alongside Dr. Brian. She received her certificate through the Assist to Succeed Program, bringing valuable skills and knowledge to her role. Her main passion in the office is helping patients feel confident in their smiles. 

Outside of work, Laycee and her husband Kyle recently welcomed their first baby girl. In her free time, she loves spending quality moments with her family and loved ones. Laycee enjoys outdoor activities such as kayaking, and she's even tried her hand at skydiving!

Josie Montgomery joined our team in 2021 as a Dental Assistant, bringing her expertise from graduating from the First Impressions Dental Assisting program and obtaining certification as a Dental Radiographer from the Ohio State Dental Board.

Josie started her dental career journey here at Merker. She values continuous learning and building lasting relationships with patients.

Outside of work, Josie enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband and best friend, Houston. Together, they share their home with three dogs. She finds comfort in her faith and cherishes moments spent with loved ones.

Ashlyn began her dental career when she joined our team in 2023 as a Dental Assistant. She is certified by the Ohio State Dental Board as a Dental Radiographer and completed the Assist to Succeed Program. Ashlyn is dedicated to providing excellent patient care and pride in making each patient visit as pleasant as possible. 

Outside of work, Ashlyn enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing violin and helping out on the family farm.

Denise Angelo joined our front office team in 2023. She holds an Associate degree in Health Information Management Technology from Zane State and previously studied Media, Film, and Advertising for four years.

In her leisure time, Denise enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and photography. She also has a passion for cooking, baking, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Marissa Sees, a dedicated Dental Hygienist, joined our team in January 2024. She graduated from West Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and a certification in local anesthesia. Marissa's favorite part of her job is building connections and trust with patients while teaching them about their oral health. She is passionate about providing the best care possible.

Marissa has two dogs, Mollie and Comet. Her and her fiance are preparing for a wedding in March 2025.