Merlin D. Epp

I graduated with Jill in 1982. We wrote for the Eagle Eye together. Through our reunion committee, several people have written personal notes remembering Mr. Epp. I would love to pass them along, if I can get an email for a family member.
Thank you. Terri (Sabotka) Latta

I graduated from Federal Way High in 1990, but Merlin's voice will never stop resonating within me. Whether I'm listening to music, or touring a cathedral, or simply doing something I enjoy, I am so frequently reminded of how much Merlin--and Jeanne and Shaun--shared with me. I will always be grateful and feel a little bit special for having been his student and a friend to his family.

I only met Merlin a few times during the course of my friendship with Shaun, but he managed to make an impression on me in the short hours that we spent together. My best thoughts and wishes are with all of you.

I was sorry to learn of Merlin's passing. I was a classmate of Merlin in both high school and college where we had many classes together. He was a great person and a good friend. I am pleased that I got to see him at our 50th high school reunion. I send my sympathy to his family.

One of those pivotal individuals that truly left his mark in this world through all the lives he touched. Nearest and dearest to me are my own children Heath & Gretchen Gardner. He will always be foundly remembered by our family.

Although I didn't have him for a teacher, Mr. Epp was a such a positive presence at Federal Way High, my thoughts and prayers are with his family.

So sad to hear of Merlin's passing. I was one of the students in 1963-66 who took Speech and debate under his patient tutelage; he encouraged us to use our VOICES and to be better at expressing our opinions. One of the finest people I encountered while living in Federal Way.

Martin Smith
Tacoma, WA

When I walked into one of the first days of Humanities class at FWHS, around 1981, and Mr. Epp was blasting the Beatles' "Hey, Jude" and telling us how that music would live through the ages, I knew we were in for something special. He was a great, provocative teacher, and helped to open my mind. He will live on in all of us who knew and learned from him.

I was a student in 1979 and in the same class as Jill - Mr. Epp was an amazing teacher and had a lasting impact on everyone he taught. He will be missed by many.