Keegan Merrick Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

MERRICK, Keegan Francis, born July 12, 1977, passed away on January 22, 2009. He was a loving husband and father and a loyal friend with a unique sense of humor. His love for animals was surpassed only by his love for his friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Halliday; his daughter, Owyn Rosi; his mother, Bree; his father, Ted; his brother, Quinn; his sister, Bianca; his niece, Isabelle; and his grandmother, Frances Fife. He served with distinction as an Animal Control Officer for the City of Richmond, and in 2006 was named Officer of the Year by the Virginia Animal Control Association. He also helped to organize and spearhead the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force. Keegan recently received his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University, graduating cum laude. Although his life was far too short, his impact was deep and he will be deeply missed. Keegan's life will be honored with a family ceremony. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Owyn R. Merrick Trust, c/o Halliday M. Merrick, and sent to John Moncure, 297 Oakledge Rd., Harpswell, Maine 04076.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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Keegan,
We loved you in high school. You changed so many of our lives.
You made Vermont Academy a special place for me... away from the troubles at home, you always brought joy to my life -- our life -- I speak for many people.
You remained in touch and never changed...your soft voice, and lovely spirit. You never waivered from being who you were and encouraging others to be who they were.
You are so missed. I know you are protecting your family and watching them from...

Kirk Vaughan

November 06, 2009 | Apex, NC

His rough no nonsense exterior scared many off….but those that stuck around, well, we were the lucky ones. It’s accurate to say there aren’t words to describe a loss, in most cases, however in this case there are many. Keegan was a force to be reckoned with. His abrasive delivery was a mere shield that with a little time was lowered and his heart of gold revealed. To learn of his exit from this world was to learn that the world of all those who knew and loved him would never be the same. My...

Kelly Humes

February 01, 2009 | Crozier, VA

I first met Keegan at a dog fighting seminar that he and Richard were putting on. YOu just know when some one can be a friend to you and that was Keegan. This past October we hung at the VACA Conferenc and the partied the nights away.
A true firend and professional will be missed.My heart felt synmpathy goes out to Merrick family.
ACO Crawford, Town of Vienna Animal Control.

Ron Crawford

January 31, 2009 | Front Royal, VA

My heart goes out to Keegan's family and other friends. He achieved and accomplished much during his short life. He will be missed by many.

Carolyn Bethea

January 30, 2009 | Richmond, VA

I first met Keegan when I interviewed him for the position of Animal Control Officer in Richmond. I was impressed by his professionalism and desire for excellence. Keegan was a good friend and collogue He will truly be missed.

Alvin Jones

January 30, 2009 | Chesterfield, VA

Keegie could never have known how very much he brought to the lives of us all. His remembrance will always give us strength and brighten our lives. What a wonderful gift for his so few years.

Peter Senne

January 29, 2009 | Wayland, MA

Keegan was a great person to have met, I met him at SCAD when we both went to school there.. He was an amazing person, and friend, he will be missed. I am sad to see that he will not be able to impact more people and animals bc his life was cut short. My heart goes out to the ones he left behind. I hope now he can finally be at peace with himself.

ERica Haynie

January 29, 2009 | Oklahoma City, OK

Bree, Gary and Family
Very sorry to hear of your lost! Our prayers go with you and your family.

Bob and Panadora Benton

January 28, 2009 | Midlothian, VA

As a wildlife rehabilitator in Richmond, I had the good fortune to interact with Keegan a number of times when he brought wild animals to Cary St. Vet. He was an incredibly caring and kind person and, at the same time, always professional and focussed on the animal in his care. He clearly was a special person. I was shocked to hear of his passing - my thoughts and prayers go out to his daughter, his wife, and his extended family. Owyn, he will live on through you.

Sammye Newman

January 28, 2009 | Richmond, VA

Keegan Francis Merrick

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