Merrill "Jack" ADAMS

Merrill "Dr. Jack" Adams
Tubac, AZ - Merrill "Dr. Jack" Adams, 76, passed away May 30, 2022, at the Tucson VA Medical Center following a courageous battle with cancer related to Agent Orange exposure. A proud Canadian-American, Jack served with the Army's 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam and was granted U.S. citizenship upon his return.

Jack's life was defined by leadership and adventure. After graduating from Washougal High School as a four-sport letterman, he dedicated his career to education. He served as a teacher and coach in Kelso and Blaine before becoming Principal at Toutle Lake. In 1980, he led the school through the Mt. St. Helens eruption, later becoming Superintendent and earning his Doctorate. He went on to lead districts in Montesano and Colville, where he was honored as Washington State Superintendent of the Year.

At age 68, Jack fulfilled a lifelong dream, riding his Harley-Davidson solo around the four corners of the United States. He eventually found his "warm weather" home in Tubac, where he spent his final months making friends at the dog park with his companion, Duke. Though he was an avid fisherman and storyteller, his greatest joy was watching his children and grandchildren excel in their own athletic and coaching pursuits.

Jack is survived by his wife, Holly; his children, Rob (Julie), Erica (Mike), and Audrey
(Dean); and seven grandchildren, Alex, Dawson, Mattie, Spencer, Reagan, Dalton, and Ava. He was preceded in death by his parents, Merrill and Margaret.

Interment took place at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake.