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Michael Merrill Obituary

Michael D. Merrill "Best Friend" Our dear brother, son, uncle, and friend, Michael D. Merrill, died suddenly June 13, 2006 at his home in Salt Lake City, Utah of natural causes. Mike was born on a beautiful summer day July 16, 1977 to Robert D. Merrill (deceased) and Alice Merrill Simonsen. The youngest of three boys, Mike immediately brought a sense of adventure and fun to his family. He had a talent to lighten a tense moment and to brighten a tough day. He was known for his enthusiasm for life and a rare genuine affection for those close to him. He graduated from East High School in 1995 where he developed several life long friendships and gained a passion for snow skiing and hockey which he played regularly until his death. He often took the lead to organize his group of friends for city league hockey and rarely missed a chance for a quick couple of runs at the 'bird. He was proud of the several city hockey league championships his team collected over the years. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Business Marketing in 2000 where he was an officer and house manager of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He proudly wore his father's 40 year old Sigma Chi ring. Mike married Kari Monson in 2001 and, although they later divorced, they remained great friends. After graduating, he began a successful career in commercial real estate working at the time of his death as an associate broker with CB Richard Ellis in Salt Lake City. Despite a short career he earned a reputation in a tough business as a self starter, hard worker and honest businessman. People hired Mike because they knew he would work hard for them and because they just liked to be around him. After the death of his father while he was a senior in high school, Mike felt a need to help other young people who had lost a parent or other loved one. For the past several years he worked as a volunteer counselor for The Sharing Place, serving as Group Coordinator at the time of his death. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mike was an example of Christian friendship to all who knew him. He loved his family and during the past several years he was a special strength and support to his mother. Mike had a special connection with the Utah outdoors and was always up for a Moab bike trip or a hike in the Wasatch mountains. When Mike came along you knew it would be a great time. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Robert D. Merrill, and is survived by his mother Alice Merrill Simonsen and step-father Robert M. Simonsen of Midway, Utah; brother Robert (Cheryl Leigh) Merrill of Colorado Springs, Colorado; brother Brad (Tricia) Merrill of North Salt Lake City, Utah; nephews Raleigh, Nate, Jack and Rex; nieces Charlett and Olivia; and many step-brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces. He was a fabulous uncle that made each of his nieces and nephews feel like they were his favorite. He is also survived by his dear friend Tamber Snarr and countless best friends. He will be profoundly missed. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 17, 2006 at the LDS Monument Park Stake Center, 1320 South Wasatch Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah. The family will greet friends and family from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 16, 2006 at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E. 1300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah, or one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. The family suggests donations in Mike's name to The Sharing Place, www.thesharingplace.org. Online condolences may be sent at www.larkinmortuary.com.

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Published by Deseret News from Jun. 15 to Jun. 16, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Merrill

Sponsored by Rinaldo, a friend forever.

Not sure what to say?





t s

September 27, 2007

I miss you...

Judy Fuchs

July 11, 2006

Dear Merrill Family,

Please know how sorry I am for your loss. I was out of town in June and just heard about Mike. I am so saddened by this news. Mike was one of those dream students - polite, funny and smart! All his fellow students wanted to be around him. There are some students that teachers remember forever and he was definitely one of those, and for all the right reasons. He made his mark on this world in the short time he was here. Please know that you are in my thoughts and I wish I had been here to tell you in person how sorry I truly am.

Judy Campbell Fuchs

Clayton Middle School

Bret Carlson

July 9, 2006

Dear Mike,

I miss my buddy. Thank you for the countless times and memories we shared. You were such a generous soul and always brought the best out of everyone around you. Your optimism for life inspired so many peoples lives. Thanks for all that you did for me. I will always miss you.

Greg Ambrose

June 30, 2006

I was a team mate of Mike's for two seasons. I didn't know him on a personal level, but thought he seemed like a nice guy. I joined the Nickles team when Wardo was still the captain, then played another season with the team after Mike took over. I've been playing on another team ever since. Very sorry to hear of this tragedy. May God be with you.

Susie Paxton Flandro

June 30, 2006

Mike made me want to be a nicer person. He was always sincere, thoughtful and a pleasure to be around. Early mornings at Golds Gym just aren't the same without his smiling face on the stationary bicycle. Mike, thanks for being a bright spot in my life.

Christopher Simonsen

June 30, 2006

Mike, my big little brother, there's been nothing but pleasurable memories that I had whenever I was your presence. Your smile, laugh, and making me feel like your friend and brother too. I love your Mother Alice, and what she has done for my Father, my family, and I. God bless you, and I hope to see you again. Thanks again for touching my life, and I am saddened that I couldn't have been there for you more.

Tom Berggren

June 20, 2006

To Alice and family:

We remember Bob and your family so fondly and were heartbroken to hear of Mike's death. You have had to endure such difficult losses. We think of you often and hope you can find some peace.

Love,

Tom and Lydia

Ben and Kelly Bond

June 20, 2006

Big Len,

Fall 95 will be with me forever and the role you played those 15 weeks and every week there after. You were always quick with a hearty laugh and even quicker with an honest smile. Thank you for the countless hours of friendship, support and brotherhood. I’ll never forget your impeccable knack for just being somewhere, anywhere. Over time I just became accustom to running into you here or there, like the summer day I was cresting Guardsman on bike and you were 4-wheeling in the Cherokee, music blaring by yourself, just enjoying the beautiful afternoon. I will miss knowing I have the opportunity of running into you when Kelly and I are in PC.

Thank you for being a part of my life- God Bless.

Andrea Horsley

June 20, 2006

To the Merrill Family and Mike's countless friends,



Though I haven't met all of you, nor have I seen many of you for some time, I've thought of you non-stop since last Tuesday's tragedy. I am deeply saddened by Mike's death. Mike was a leader and, clearly, he will be missed by so many. I pray for you all and desperately hope that somehow you find peace. May God carry you through this devastating time, ease your pain and comfort your souls. My thoughts are with you.

Richard McMaster

June 20, 2006

The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.

Katie Barrett Lieberman

June 19, 2006

The news of Mike's passing leaves me with such a deep ache in my heart. Mike was a dear friend for all my years in Jr. High and High School. His big heart and sense of humor brought some of my greatest memories from childhood and beyond. Mike truly lit up any room he entered. I extend my deepest sympathies to Mike's family and close friends during this time. Having recently experienced the sudden death of my sister, I can truly say I feel so deeply for all of you experiencing the enormity of this loss. I send my deepest love and prayers to you all in this time of profound grief.

Joseph Gallegos

June 19, 2006

Mike,



I only had the privilage of knowing you 6 years, but will always remember your willingness to take time to ask how I was doing. This simple act of selflessness is a great thing that many people lack, yet you made it common. You will be remembered by everyone who had the fortune of knowing you. ~In Hoc

Dennis and MaryAnne Smith

June 19, 2006

Mike was one of the best neighbors we have ever had. We have been living on 1300 East since 1980. He took the lead in supporting our alley resurfacing and we often discussed hockey together and neighborhood issues. I was shocked when I opened this email from our hockey league, as we were gone this weekend to the Relay for Life in Park City. He was a wonderful person and I am just shocked by his death and sorry we didn't know until now or we would have been at the funeral.

Clover Sanders

June 19, 2006

Dear Merrill,

I will always think of you fondly and am deeply saddend by losing you. I hope your many close friends find comfort in each other and the memories you share together.

Love, Clover

Brad Johnson

June 18, 2006

I was fortunate to spend four day’s with Mike in Denver last month. We had a great time and I will always remember his laughter on the rides at Six Flags. It was a privilege to have you as my pledge brother in Sigma Chi and as a genuine friend. You will be missed by all.

Tara Paras

June 18, 2006

Dear Mike,



I love everything about you! The smile you bring every time your name is mentioned! The thoughtfulness you have and the way you make everyone feel apart of the group! Thank you for your friendship! I am going to miss you, it is not going to be the same with out seeing you sneaking a few runs in at snowbird and barbeques at the house. We will all love and miss you! Love your friend Tara Paras!

Chas Gordon

June 17, 2006

Mike you were a great guy to be around, you were always "ready to go" thanks for the good memories, you will be greatly missed, God bless

Chas Gordon

Bob McMann

June 17, 2006

For Mikes Family,

We share a common love of sport and the game of ice hockey. Although we "played" the game differently me dropping pucks and you..having most of the fun...(kidding) it is a bond non the less and I am always saddened when the game losses one of its dreamers. On behalf of the Officials of USA Hockey and the Rocky Mountain District God bless you and your family..

Sincerly, Bob McMann Rocky Mountain District Referee in Chief

Justin Cracroft

June 17, 2006

My first memory of Mike takes me back 21 years to Sunnyside Park on a Saturday morning. After starting my first football season a week late, MIKE was the FIRST person to offer his unconditional friendship. Since that day when he invited me to ride out to Grantsville with him and his dad (in Bob's white 944), I've always admired him. He was a GENUINE person. For that reason, he leaves a great void in this world. God's blessings and peace be with you, Merrill Family. See you again someday, Mike.

Greg Smelzer

June 16, 2006

Merrill,



You brought joy and happiness to all of the people around you. I feel honored and fortunate for being one of your friends and I will always remember you. Whenever I came back into town, you made me feel at ease and it was as if I had never left. I’ll never forgot the countless times you made me laugh so hard my stomach would hurt.



Lenny, you're the best.

Smelzer

Chelsea Malouf

June 16, 2006

I cannot possibly express my sadness at hearing the news of Mike’s passing. Mike was a treasure and will be missed by so many people. He truly enjoyed life and spread that joy to those around him.



My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Jason Ball

June 16, 2006

Mike,

My brother and friend, from day one you have been willing to go out of your way to help people feel better bring them up to your vibrant level of life. Whether you were teaching freshmen how to meet women or helping kids carve pumpkins you treated every job like a privilige. Every moment spent with you was a privilege. Your excitement for life and adventure has rubbed off on me and left me with a higher character and model to follow. Your smile and laugh will never be forgotten but forever missed.

Your Friend, Lomi

R. Burns

June 16, 2006

Mike,

I've just recently learned of your passing and I am deeply saddened beyond words. You have touched my life in so many positive ways. You were always so encouraging...an inspiration to me and others. You treated myself and others with so much kindness and respect even when it wasn't deserved. You have taught me so much and I will always remember the fun we shared. Thank you! It has been my pleasure to have met you and shared with you. I will miss your great smile, but will carry lots of great memories of your humor "Lenny". I send my love to all your family. You will always stand as an example to me. God Bless.

KEVIN King

June 16, 2006

Dear Merrill family,

Although we only knew Mike professionally, We are deeply saddened by his passing. Mike has worked with us over the past five years and was the consumate gentleman and professional. He had our total trust from the day we met him. May God bless Mike and his family.

Kevin King and the staff from Valley Game.

McKinley Oswald

June 16, 2006

I have so many great memories of Lenny up at the Sig House. When I returned from my mission, he was one of the first brothers I met. I will remember the many trips to Berto's in the early morning. You will be missed.

Tina (Furness) DeHaan

June 16, 2006

Mike-

Tony and I will miss you dearly. Your great enthusiasm for life and the great attitude that you had will sorely be missed.

Tony and I always looked forward to the Halloween parties and the GREAT costumes that you would come up with. Your smile and those big blue eyes will remain with us forever! I always looked forward to that BIG hug and genuine smile that you were famous for and will always be remembered.

Thank you for being a part of mine and Tony's BIG day!

Love you Tina & Tony

Richard Jensen

June 16, 2006

Dear Alice, Bob and Brad and Trish,

We are so sorry to hear of Mike's unexpected passing. Our thoughts are with you.



With Sympathy,

Richard and Suzanne Jensen

Mike Parr

June 16, 2006

Michael will be missed by all of us in the USHL. A great opponent who always played tough, but fairly.

He was always a good example for all in his presence.

Mike Parr #19

2002 USHL Champion Rangers

Soren Jespersen

June 16, 2006

Lenny,



Give a hug to Chuck for me. I love you both.



Soren.

Spencer Crandall

June 16, 2006

Mike,

I feel so lucky to have had such amazing friend for nearly 20 years. So many great times we shared together. You taught me so much about life and being a man. You'll be in my thoughts and heart every day for the rest of my life. May god bless you, your amazing wonderful mother and the rest of your family.

Love forever,

Spencer Crandall

Brandon Patterson

June 16, 2006

Mike-

I have been in shock ever since I heard the news on Tuesday. I miss you terribly already. You had such a gift for making new friends, but also for maintaining the friendships you already had. My sincerest condolences go to the Merrill Family, Tamber, and the thousands of lives Mike has touched.

Tyler Davis

June 16, 2006

Someone who has left such a large imprint in my life and others will be missed forever. Nickels Hockey has retired number 9, and the ski team will always take a moment to remember a true friend and an excellent skier. But the hardest part will be the missing laughter that kept us all happy in our worst “DH” moments. Mike, the ripple effect of your great life will affect us all forever. I will miss you with all my heart.

Jamie Evans Barth

June 16, 2006

Mr. Mike...my eigth grade sweety. Never a time when you were in the room that someone wasn't laughing. You had that way about you. Whether it was swimming, playing polo or at the Sigma Chi house, you always seemed to carry a charismatic stride. My sympathies to the Merrill family and long lists of friends.

Jeff & Christina Ward

June 16, 2006

Merrill- Words cannot explain how much we are going to miss your friendship, humor, contagious laugh, compassion, and positive outlook on life (not to mention the excellent Halloween costumes and #9’s presence on the ice). We first meet when we started Nickels hockey ten years ago, and I knew instantly that I had just made a buddy for life, but I had no idea that I would learn such a valuable lesson from you- live life to fullest, just as you did. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike’s family. You will be greatly missed, buddy-



"When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life in a manner so that when you die the world cries and you rejoice."



~Native American Proverb

Robin Kramer

June 16, 2006

Dear Aunt Alice, Uncle Robert and Families,



I have such fond memories of Mike when were kids. The time we spent in Salt Lake with him were the highlights of our summers. He always made us laugh. I will treasure the memories of Mike and feel honoured to be one of his Merrill cousins. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Trevor Miller

June 16, 2006

Merrill, I'll never forget the Sig House. You putting me on 'Shadey Acres' and making us clean up the 'Old Lady's Yard'. Mike, you always greeted me with a smile and I always enjoyed running into you when we were out and about. Thanks for being you! You will be missed greatly.

Tim Conde

June 16, 2006

As I reflect on the many laughs Lenny provided during his time in the Sigma Chi house, I can't help but recall the many times he said, "Spray and walk away." Mike, you always insisted upon a clean shower! To his family go my sincerest thoughts and prayers.

Steve Jones

June 16, 2006

Merrill,



What a pleasure it has been to get to know you over the last few years. You have always been kind and sincere to me- no matter how obnoxious I may have been. The Jones' will miss you and carry you in our hearts. Good times and precious memories.

Mark Cook

June 16, 2006

Dear Merrills,

While I didn't know Michael well, I've always felt close and admired your family, especially Brad. Brad has been such a good friend and such an example to me and to Michael. I'll always remember how kind "Sister Merrill" was to me everytime she saw me from youth until now. I also remember the kind tones all of you expressed in public to each other especially your little brother. Our prayers are with you.



Mark and Annika Cook

Greg & Juliann Betenson

June 16, 2006

Brad, Trish & the Merrill Family;

Our deepest sympathies to each of you. We love you dearly.

Matt Hansen

June 15, 2006

Dear Merrill family,

Some of my favorite memories of Mike are when he was dressed as a T-ball coach for Halloween one year, and when we went backpacking in the Escalante desert. We couldn't figure out what made his pack so heavy, but when we got to camp he pulled out: a full spray bottle of "I can't believe it's not butter," a chunk of cheese the size of my head, and a full bottle of Tabasco, as well as all the other normal items. Thank you, Mike, for your friendship and for always helping the rest of us laugh. I will miss you.

Ben & Sarajane Johnson

June 15, 2006

Dear Mike,

The latest news headline has stopped us right in our tracks. You have given so much to others and taken so little. Your genuine stance in life leaves a mark for others to strive for. We all cherish the golden memories you have infused in our hearts and they will always be talked about in legendary status. We will always hear the one of a kind Lenny Laugh wherever we are to make us grin and to make our days better. You will always be with us forever and we look forward to being with you again someday. Our thoughts are with Mike’s family at this difficult time.

chris lambert

June 15, 2006

Mike was and is the most well liked person I know period. He was impossible not to like and he got along with everyone. His infectious smile and enthusiam will be missed by many, many people.

Brad and Trish Merrill

June 15, 2006

To Mike's countless best friends,

It is difficult to express how much we will miss Mike, but our family has been continually bolstered and uplifted by the many messages of support and concern from all of you. Mike made those around him better, and was better because of those around him. Our times of intense sorrow have been relieved by the many wonderful and delightful memories and new stories that you have shared with us. Thank you for helping making Mike remain alive in our hearts by sharing your stories and love for him.



We love you all,



Brad and Trish Merrill

Natalie Jeppson

June 15, 2006

Mike was The BEST! The person you always wanted to be around--that everyone wanted to be around. Nothing but the best of things to say and now the best of memories to think about w/ Mike. He will be missed more than anyone can comprehend.

Hilma Bellessa

June 15, 2006

Dear, Dear Alice. You are one of the kindest, most loving friends I've ever had. I'm so sad for you and sad I'm away when all of this happened. I know of your love and concern for Mike. I am praying for your comfort. I know you are strong and will eventually heal. I love you.

Silverton, CO. with the boys. One of the greatest ski days with Mike EVER!!!

June 15, 2006

Smitty Monson

June 15, 2006

Mike-

Thank you for your laugh and your euphemims. China. I wish that I could have seen you more the past couple of years. You were a true friend and bro-in-law. Thanks for always standing up for me and for your love. I will miss you and your big heart. Thanks again, your bro,

Smitty

Joe Knudson

June 15, 2006

Mike was one of the nicest and coolest people that I have ever known. Great Man and Teammate who will never be forgotten. My condolences go out to his family, dear friends, and anyone who has ever had the pleasure to meet him. You will be missed -

Cheryl Pais

June 15, 2006

I had a chance to meet Mike and he was such a wonderful outgoing person. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Clair Mellenthin

June 15, 2006

Mike was truly a wonderful man and friend to all who knew him. My deepest sympathy to his family. Much love, Clair (Evans) Mellenthin

Brian and Kristen Hulse

June 15, 2006

We only met Mike a few times, but his energy was palpable. He, like the other Merrill children, served as a constant reminder of the values and goodness his parents instilled in their children. He will be greatly missed, but his influence and example of those values and that goodness will always be felt. Our deepest condolences to the Merrill family and those close to Mike.

Rob Weber

June 15, 2006

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Merrill family and friends. Although, I did not get the chance to meet Mike personally, I did have the opportunity to work with him over the last few years. I am truly thankful for that time. His commitment to our clients never wavered no matter how big or small the requirement. He will be truly missed by our clients and most of all our Chicago Team.

Nathan and Meagan Woods

June 15, 2006

Alice and Bob, Meagan and I are so sorry that we can not be there with you right now and for the funeral, Just know that you have our love and thoughts and prayers.

Elisabeth Torghele

June 15, 2006

Mike,

Sometimes life takes us by surprise, You will missed more than ever. My heart and prayers go out to all of Mike's family and friends. I am out of town for the services but wanted to send my condolences.

Lissy T.

Jason Furness

June 15, 2006

I was devastated to hear the news and wish I could be there for support. Mike always brought a smile to my face everytime I saw him. I will miss the time I was allowed to skate on the same pond as big Len, It was something I looked forward to everytime I came home. My love goes out to Mike's family and all his firends

Rinaldo Hunt

June 15, 2006

Mike,

I remember the first time we met. It was May 1984 and we were both wearing Speedos...Looking back, I guess that is the best way to meet a life-long friend. We experienced good times, bad times and everything in between. You taught me how to be an unconditional friend and how to give unconditional friendship. It takes work and unbiased love...you were truly the master!



The rest of my life is going to be interesting, but a little incomplete. I am going to miss you dearly. I love you Mike-

Angie Mekkelson

June 15, 2006

I am so grateful that I had the privilege of watching Mike grow up from a baby to a fine young man!! Mike is a genuine class act. A true friend and brother. He lit up every room he walked into. I will never forget his deep love, concern and comfort he gave to me and my mom when we lost my little brother. I'm so glad that we got to spend so much time together as he was growing up. He'll be forever in my heart.

Brian Evans

June 15, 2006

Mike you were the best friend anyone could ever have. I will never forget you and you will be missed forever. All my love and support to Alice in this hard time.

Nicole Potter

June 15, 2006

Michael,

I have never met anyone with a smile & laugh as contagious as yours!! How lucky am i to have had a friend like you!! You are forever loved!!

Love,

Nic

John Hausknecht

June 15, 2006

Dear Merrill family, Mike and I were volunteers together at The Sharing Place. I learned so much from Mike and he had a tremendous impact on not only my life, but also the kids. Mike was so great with the group, he was always so full of encouragement and had a kind word for everyone. I was so saddened and stunned to hear of his death. I extend my deepest sympathies.

Chad Richardson

June 15, 2006

My deepest condolences...

Mike will be missed in-house and on the hill. He will forever be rembered for his passion towards life, light hearted spirit and permanent smile.

Chris & Sarah Hunter

June 15, 2006

Merrill, you will be missed by everyone that was lucky enough to meet you. Mike had the biggest heart and the most compassion of any one that I have ever met. I will forever smile everytime I think of "Lenny".

We will all miss you much,

Kelli Meziani

June 15, 2006

Dear Mike,

I will never forget all the awesome times we have enjoyed together: swimming at the Fort Douglas as kids, water polo at East High, hanging out at the Sig house, camping trips and many more. You had a way of making everyone around you happy as you were always the life of the party with your big smile and even bigger laugh. We will miss you Mike and you have left foot prints in our hearts that will be there forever.

Much Love, Your Friend Kelli

Klae Beck

June 15, 2006

My Brother!!! How I will miss you can never be expressed in words. I will never forget the times we spent skiing, biking, hiking/backpacking, playing hockey, and conversing. I have been and always shall be your dear friend. I Love you my BROTHER!!

Kari Monson

June 15, 2006

To My Dear Mikey D-

You were my support for so long and you gave me the world. I will miss your laugh and your wonderful smile. Thank you for the great love and friendship that we were able to share. I will never find a love like you gave to me. You are going to be greatly missed.

All My Love,

Kars

Fun in Vegas with the Bros

June 15, 2006

Summer at the Gallivan Center

June 15, 2006

That infectious smile

June 15, 2006

Darin & Kristi Johnson

June 15, 2006

To the Merrill family,



Our hearts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.



Mike was a great friend to all that knew him. He possessed a level of kindness, discipline and determination, which will continue to serve as a leading example to all that knew him. Mike will be sorely missed, but his memory and character will live on forever through his family and friends.



We love & miss you Mike.

Emily Heal

June 15, 2006

Mike had a heart of gold and will never be forgotten for that. He was an amazing friend through junior high, high school, and after. My deepest sympathies to the Merrill family.

Lance Bullen

June 15, 2006

From the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, to the many memories at the Sigma Chi house, I will never forget your influence on me. Thanks for being such a great big brother, friend, and inspiration.

vanessa valdez

June 15, 2006

mike, you brought me the comfort and support i needed in my life! I will miss you and remember you forever.. with love, vanessa

The Boys

June 15, 2006

Matt Barrus

June 15, 2006

Mike was one of the nicest guys I had the honor to know. He will truly be missed. My thoughts and sympathies go out to your family at this time.

John kesler

June 15, 2006

To my friend mike, we will all dearly miss you. You were a great person with an enormous heart. When most were eager to criticize, you were eager to share words of wisdom and joy. When most would have laid down and given up, you forged forward. When people teased you instead of getting upset you smiled and teased them right back. Everyone who met you loved you Mike. You will be very sorely missed.

Jeffrey Lewis

June 15, 2006

MIKE, LENNY, MICE & MERRILL, truely one of the most enjoyable people that I have ever known. I will miss his laughter and his optimistic outlook on life. A true brother.

Lana Colonna

June 15, 2006

Mike, you are a great friend and co-worker. You always put a smile on my face, and made working in our office so much fun! Get her done.

John Stephens

June 15, 2006

Mike brought an easy-going, genuine quality to every conversation I every had with the guy. He was a class act. My best wishes to the family who must deal with this tragedy.

Erin Ruzek

June 15, 2006

Merrill,



Thanks for the great friendship you provided me since we were 12 years old. You are an amazing person who will always have a place in my heart. My life will not be the same without you.



Love always and forever!



Erin 'Edson' Ruzek

Mark Alexander

June 15, 2006

Mike was a terrific member of the CB Richard Ellis family where he worked for the past 5 years. He was always there to help a friend or make a deal. He had a passion for his work and a passion for life. We will miss him greatly.

Mike Ruzek

June 15, 2006

Merrill,



I just wanted to let you know how much Erin and I love you and miss you. I will always remember skiing the Bird, fishing trips to the Green with Spinner Fall boys, countless hikes and camping trips. I will remember your profuse head sweating and 'the shed'. I will remember your love for any product in the Haribo and Trolli candy families. I will remember mmkay, DH, 8 oc, and other merrillisms. I will remember your ipod with 50,000 songs, and hearing 5 seconds of each one on the way up to the Bird. I will remember one of the best and most genuinly loving friends that I have ever had.







Ruzek

Reg Garff

June 15, 2006

Dear Alice,

I was so sorry to read about Mike's passing - so young; so unexpected. Such a loss to you and your family. There are good memories that will always be with you, which will help heal the vacancy in your heart. Since I am in Kirtland on a mission I will be unable to be present at the service, but I send my love and sympathies.

June 15, 2006

big len

Nicholas Lumby

June 15, 2006

I had the privilege to get to know Mike over the last couple of years, his enthusiasm and welcoming attitude made even a british bloke feel as though he was a life long friend; Mike was always the life and soul of the party, here's one for you mate, i'll be raising a pint on Saturday night to one of the most fun blokes in Utah - cheers mate. Nick

Tim and Judy Anker

June 15, 2006

Mike will be deeply missed. He is truly one of the nicest people I've ever met. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Michael Merrill's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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