James L. Merryman

Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss. I just learned of Jim's passing and am saddened by the news. I am thankful that Jim made it to our last class reunion in Shickley, NE in May of 2013. He was a popular person and a genuine friend to all. He will be missed.

Dear Nancy and Julianne,
I would like to offer my deepest condolences for your loss. Jim's passionate and enthusiastic approach to teaching anthropology as "the study of the human experience across all space and time" instilled in me a great curiosity that ultimately grew into a rewarding career. His mentorship and support comprise the foundation of my interest in anthropology. Jim's passing represents not only a loss to the field, but also the loss of superb and fervent educator. Your...

Dear Nancy,
I have been searching for the correct words to convey my sympathies to your family. James always had a smile whenever I saw him. He enthralled me with his travels and shared photos of his Silver Back encounter. Please know that even though our meetings were necessary they were never dull. I know how much his family meant to him and he to them. Should the need ever come for someone to "just listen", please feel free to call on me. My heartfelt condolences to all who knew...

So sad to hear about Jim. My thoughts are with you Nancy and with Juliann. Lots of hugs and love to you both.

Lovely to hear from you Nancy, despite the sad, sad news about Jim. Nanny and I are thinking of you and Julie - and of course back to our times in Muqdisho.

Dear Nancy and Julianne,
My brother, Dan Kopen, wishes to covey his sincere condolences. Jim was a wonderful person who will be greatly missed.
Pam Kopen

Dear Nancy and Juliann, there just aren't enough words to express my condolences. Jim was a good friend and colleague and, in my mother's words, "a real gent." I miss him, but I also feel that we're all pretty lucky to have had him in our lives. With sympathy & love - Gina, William & Victoria

What a man! So much fun, so much intelligence, so much energy, so much good for others, so much cultural understanding and international helpfulness--from the day I met Jim and Nancy in 1972, in Garissa, Kenya, to photograph their incredible project of helping destitute Somalis to grow veggies to our recent summer swim in Bear Creek lake, Jim has been an affirming friend, an enthusiastic optimist and a companion worth emulating. Love ya Jim. And I love you Julianne and Nancy.

Met Jim at the Wilkes Barre YMCA several years ago. Truly one of the nicest people I've known. So sorry for your loss.