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John Merrick Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Merrick
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2022
Johnny, I think of you often. When I see Liam & Fiona together, I think of us as children and I wish I could remember more.I wish we had more time together. Tomorrow is my 75th birthday; I feel sad to be in the autumn of my life. Yet I think of you who lost your life at 59 and I pledge to live my life joyfully in all my years. I pledge to appreciate every day mindfully with thoughts of you. Love you always, Susie
Susan Wiik
October 22, 2020
“Johnny, we hardly knew he! “I’m doing it again; I’m posting on the day before the anniversary of your passing. It’s now 11 years ago. Patty and I were at the Twin Cities airport with Mom, very early in the morning. David Dale called my cell phone to tell you had died earlier that morning. I remember so vividly the shock and grief we hid from Mom until after the flight and we had arrived in Las Vegas. I’m so sorry for the pain and misery of your illness. I’m proud of your bravery in coping with it and your treatment. I’m sad I could do so little to comfort you or ease your days. I love you; I miss you and I will forever regret the years we lost.
Susan Wiik
October 22, 2019
Tomorrow is the 10 year anniversary of my brother Johns death. Its impossible to put into words how much I miss him, how often I wish I could talk to him. Too many years passed when we let geographical separation define our relationship. Johnny, we hardly knew he. I love you very much, little brother.
Amy Kline
October 25, 2010
Uncle John,
You truly were an amazing person in this world. You touched a lot of lives and will be missed by many! You are thought about a lot in the Kline household and memories will forever be shared about you as a caring older brother, uncle, father, son, and friend.
John Wiik
October 25, 2010
To my brother-in-law John, You could never have imagined all the people you have touched, loved and protected. As family far away we always knew you were doing good work for us all. In getting to talk to many of your friends we learned how you not only filled an important role in your family but in your role at work. Jack was always proud of you but his Marine buttons are bursting in pride for your never tiring work for the Navy and your country. I think we all have a better appreciation of what makes our country the best place in the world to live. Smooth sailing, John.
Published in Las Vegas Review-Journal on October 26, 2009
October 24, 2010
October 24, 2010
This was published in the Minneapolis Star Tribune on November 15th, 2009
October 24, 2010
On October 20, 2009 they flew a flag in his honor at the CIA building
October 24, 2010
John's Naval Retirement Ceremony
October 24, 2010
John's Naval Retirement Ceremony
October 24, 2010
October 24, 2010
John in 1975
October 24, 2010
Barb Merrick
October 24, 2010
I miss you John, my brother; you were a good, kind person I was just beginning to know as an adult friend. I am jealous you are with Dad now; I miss Dad so much it hurts. After dad was gone, I relied on you for strength and guidance, I have needed you so much this past year, I talk to you and dad often and ask for help in getting my life back together. I feel cheated as the youngest sibling, out of years I assumed we would have together in the future. You were a wonderful uncle to my kids, I remember the extra time you put in to get Michael that special truck or toy. You took the time to remember Beth’s and my birthday. A trip to Las Vegas was a time to see you, now it will have a different meaning, but I liked coming to see you and Lori and the girls. Please rest now, free of pain and all the hard work you did. Your best friend Dave is a wonderful man. He has taken the time to be with our family, to help us understand what we can of your life and work. He was truly your brother. Kathy and Dave Carroll have told us the kindest stories about you. We are all doing ok; we watch out for mom, she grieves for you so much. This year has gone by so fast, and before I know it, I will be seeing you again. I love and miss you more than you could have ever imagined!! Your baby sister, Barb
Grandpa and Aubrey
October 23, 2010
Dad, You should have been here at my wedding. Love, Julia
Julia Stiles
October 23, 2010
Lindsey and her dad, walking down the aisle
October 23, 2010
John and his mother enjoying a dance
October 23, 2010
Aubrey Merrick (Age 9)
October 23, 2010
my grandpa was a good grandpa. we all miss him so much. he cant be with us in person but he will always be with us in our heart. when I was a baby he would take me down stairs and we would watch the news. that is a little about my grandpa.
Julia Stiles (Merrick)
October 23, 2010
Dad,
As I think of you today I think of all the wonderful times we had and of all the things you taught me. Your bravery and selflessness throughout your entire life have been a good example to many people, or at least to me. The past year seems noticeably harder without your guidance, but I am grateful for the things I know because of you. You were missed many times over the year and you will always be missed, never forgotten. You are thought of everyday. I wish you could have attended my wedding in person, you would have been so proud. I love you more than I can explain in words. Thanks for everything dad. I love you.
October 23, 2010
October 23, 2010
October 23, 2010
Sue and John
October 23, 2010
October 23, 2010
Susan Wiik
October 23, 2010
John E. Merrick
July 29,1950 to October 23, 2009
We think of you every day. You give us smiles on our faces and tears in our eyes. We are so thanksful for the years we had with you. You were a wonderful, thoughtful, caring son, brother, dad, and friend. You are missed and loved greatly by many. We will gather together today in Las Vegas and Minnesota to honor you and talk of you through our tears and smiles. With love forever, Mom, sisters,daughters, grandchildren, and friends.
Patty Kline
October 23, 2010
Dear Brother John,
last year on this date,I was on my way to visit you,wanting to hold and comfort you one last time.However,you had a different plan in mind,as you often did,that today was going to be a day free from any more pain and suffering.My heart misses you every day but I find comfort in knowing that you are surrounded by God and others who love and care for you.
As I saw the mountains this week,I felt your peace and as I sat in your treasured blue truck with your lovely family,I felt your happiness,as YOU are now resting in peace.
I love and miss you very much but I know we will be together again some day. Your sister forever,Patty Jo
Susan Wiik
October 21, 2010
My sweet brother, Johnny, today is my 63rd birthday. I celebrate for both of us. In late August 2009 you told me that the only item on your "bucket list" was to live to be 63. When I asked you why you picked that number, you replied that "it was a good age" and you also wanted to be able to receive Social Security! In that conversation we both knew you would not make it to 63. I understand what a privilege it is for me to celebrate this birthday; I will carry you with me for all my birthdays and celebrate your life as well. Love you always, Sue
John with his whole Minnesota family at Klines July 29, 2000 to celebrate his 50th birthday!
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John, Mom, Sue, Barb and Patty at Telemark Resort, August 2000
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John and Julia play pool at Telemark Resort, August 2000
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John, Lorri, Julia, Lindsey and Kim at the Klines July 29,2000
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John's 50th birthday gift from his sisters July 29,2000
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John and Mom share their birthday cake 7-29-2000
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John's 50th Birthday Cake at his Minnesota party 7-29-2000
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
Las Vegas night lights with John and Katie, Jan. 2009
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John was a great tour guide for Katie and Norm, Jan. 2009
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John, Katie, Norm and Lorri, Las Vegas, January 2009
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
John and his sisters share a happy moment, Aug. 9, 2008
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
Mom and her kids! August 9, 2008
susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
August 9, 2008 Katie and Norm's Wedding Day
Susan Wiik
October 20, 2010
The four Merrick "kids" at Klines, April 2005
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
April 2005 at Kline's pre 25th anniversary gathering
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
May 28, 2007 St. Paul Hotel for Kristen and Seth's Wedding Brunch
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
May 28, 2007 Kristen and Seth's Wedding Brunch at St. Paul Hotel
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
John's House at 5962 Applegate Lane, Las Vegas, NV
susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
John Celebrating Barb's Birthday October 1, 2009
susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
October 1, 2009 Celebrating Barb's birthday in Las Vegas
susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
October 2, 2009 Before dinner at IHOP
susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
John's House on Applegate Lane, October 2, 2009
susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
John with all his "kids" at Kim and Thomas's Wedding April 12, 2009
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
John and Lindsey April 12, 2009
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
Kim's Wedding April 12, 2009
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
April 12, 2009 Easter Sunday and Kim's Wedding
Susan Wiik
October 19, 2010
April 2005 Patty and Gregg's 25th Wedding Anniversary Party
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
August 9, 2008 John, Julia and Aubrey at Katie's Wedding
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
August 9, 2008 Katie and Norm's Wedding
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Lake Minnetonka visit/Lunch at Maynard's 08-13-08
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
August 10, 2008 Breakfast at the Hilton after Katie's Wedding
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
August 8, 2008 Sue and John
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
August 8, 2008 Pre-Wedding Picnic for Katie and Norm
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Dave and John are dear friends, Navy brothers and co-workers
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Dave Dale and John at JT3 Party 10-14-09
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Dave Carroll and John at JT3 Party 10-14-09
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Dorothy Merrick
October 18, 2010
Dear family I have gone thru a year that
every day I have thought lots of memories
of dear John,I was always glad to speak of him and all of you know how we miss him,I felt close to him when I looked at his picture and saw his sweet kind and handsome face at family
gatherings.I was glad he was with us at those times.John loved all of us.I was so proud of him.My heart holds him close to me like it did when I was carrying him when he was born on my birthday. I cant believe he is gone.I know some of us will be together
on Oct 23rd and talk of our love for him.And the happy times too.our family is special for having John love mom
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
Susan Wiik
October 18, 2010
October 18, 2010
October 18, 2010
October 18, 2010
Our Loving Family
Barb Merrick
October 18, 2010
October 17, 2010
David Dale
October 17, 2010
Unbelievable that it has been a year since my good friend John has passed, not a day has gone by that he has not been in our thoughts and discussions. We miss him evermore, especially the days we shared time and lively discussion of our views past, present, and future. Additionally, this time of year brings hunting season, a time we usually spent a whole week tromping the backwoods of Nevada getting lost in the adventure with his dad Jack and my son Mike. Memories I will cherish.
John and I shared the Naval as well as the world travel experience, times that are meaningless except to those that lived the times...we were brothers, always there for each other, never a burden.
We miss you John, Dave and Kathy
JT3 coin side 2
David Dale
October 17, 2010
JT3 coin side 1
David Dale
October 17, 2010
October 14, 2010
October 14, 2010
John at his JT3 Recognition Party October 14, 2009
Susan Wiik
October 4, 2010
Susan Wiik
September 30, 2010
These are poignant and thoughtful days as I remember our visit to see John last year at this time. My heart is so full of sadness as I think of our precious last days with him. Our last night there on October 4, I remember standing on his back patio in the dark and looking at the moon with John. It was a precious moment; I love you, brother John, and I still am in awe of your courage in the fight you waged. Sue
Patty Kline
August 9, 2010
Dear brother John,,Happy 60th birthday.We celebrated your special day with a sense of sadness, feelings of loss and memories of times we shared.I too remember how you spent your last birthday in great pain but I will also remember your 50th at my house and the fun we had together.I look at your picture everyday,still talk to you and hope that you knew how much I admired and loved my brother.
Hugs and kisses,Patty Jo
Dorothy Merrick
July 30, 2010
My dearest Son I still am so sad with you gone .I so wish I could talk to you
and let you know how proud I was of you and all the work you did for a lot of years for your Country.Yoi were a good father to your girls.I know you enjoyed your family.I remember all the good times we had when you came home for a visit,You were the best birthday GIFT I ever got,I looked at all your
pictures when you were home with us.
You loved to swim and fish!!You are in my heart every day,I snt love to you all the time love your MOM.forever,
Susan Wiik
July 29, 2010
My dear brother John, I am thinking of you so very much today on what should have been your 60th birthday. It is also tinged with the sadness of knowing how difficult your 59th birthday was: the day you learned the cancer had returned and spread. You were so stoic as you tried to protect your family from the news. You are always in our hearts with great love and fond memories. I celebrate this day when you entered the world as my little brother and a gift on your mom's birthday too. Love you always, Sue
Dorothy Merrick
March 26, 2010
dear family I am so sad at times but when I think of John and all the sweet Memories I have and know he really loved our family and missed alot so far away,I cant believe he is gone
love mother Dorothy merrick,
March 23, 2010
It has been 5 months since I last saw my dad. I miss him everyday and my heart feels empty. I miss him so much. Hope your watching over us and watching your grand babies grow....
February 9, 2010
As I once again read the poem that my Mom left about my brother John,,I now know who tapped me on my shoulder this past Saturday night at 3:00 AM.These last few months,I have needed you and thought of you often. Thank-you John, for watching over me with your love and quidance.Give me your strength and wisdom and follow me always. I miss you so much and talk to you often....Love,,your younger sis,,Patty
Susan Wiik
February 4, 2010
It's been just over 3 months since we lost John. We miss him and think of him daily. The ache and sadness is especially difficult for our mom who talks of him daily. She posted the poem below and the words speak our wishes and our dreams of being with John again. He left a void that will never be filled. John, I love you and miss you every day. Sister Sue
dorothy Merrick
February 1, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010
Kristen Wiik Cruden
November 16, 2009
My Uncle John was an amazing man who devoted himself to his family, military service, and country. He was so proud of his daughters and grandchildren and always wanted the best for his family. Although many of us will never fully understand the important impact of his work, we remain thankful for and proud of his patriotism and commitment to our country. I will always treasure my memories of his visits "home" to Minnesota and the time we spent with him in Nevada.
Patty Kline
November 15, 2009
"Brother John",as he always referred to himself when he called home or wrote a card,left Minn at an early age to join the Navy,pursue a career and travel to parts unknown. I was but a teenager and I truly felt an absence in my life during many important moments.His life became his own,with family,friends and his work in Nev.I always knew he was a constant in my life and I was so proud of all that he accomplished in his life. My heart aches for all he had yet to do and his looking forward to his retirement years.
When I flew over Las Vegas every week for my job as a F/A at Delta, I always looked down and knew my Big Brother was doing something good for those he loved. Now, as I fly in and out of Vegas, I look toward the mountains of Boulder City and feel the warmth of his smile and comfort of his hugs. Miss you so much,,,"Sister Patty"
Dorothy Merrick
November 6, 2009
For all Johns friends who have signed this book I want to thank you for all the wonderful things you have wrote about John.He was the best son in the world and was brought up to be a good caring man by his Dad Jack and me,I am
so Proud of him and my life is changed
forever,He was too young to leave me,
He had such plans for retirement.I only wish he could of come home one more time to MINNESOTA,hE WAS A good
and loving father.brother.and Son.
We are having a Memorial at Nativity
church Nov 19th at 6;30 pm.All are invited, peace to all dorothy (Mom)
Julia Merrick
November 5, 2009
Dad- Words can't describe how much I love you. You will always be in my heart. You taught me everything I know and I am grateful for all of the memories of our time together. You are missed. I love you.
Lindsey Rutledge
November 3, 2009
I would like everyone to know how great mt dad was (most already know) but he was so caring and smart. He wanted to see everyone succeed and would help in any way possible. He was sooo patient with us (his 3 daughters) he listened to all the girls silly songs and goofy rhymes and riddles and never got angry or annoyed. We would take 3 day roadtrips where us girls would sing or fight most of the way but my dad kept going. I have wonderful childhood memories and will cherish them forever. He was a wonderful father and grandfather. I will miss him everyday. Love you dad xoxo Hugs
Lindsey Merrick-Rutledge
November 3, 2009
Dad, you were so wonderful and caring. Soooo smart. I cannot believe you are gone, It seems impossible that god would take you so young. I know you are in heaven watching us, I think about you everyday. I love you daddy. Hugs and Kisses
Lindsey
Susan Merrick Wiik
October 29, 2009
My heart is aching as we have said good bye to my precious brother John. While we were sharing in his funeral services, we learned many things about his selfless commitment to his country through his dedication to his work. We will miss him and hold him with love forever.
Mark Baumgartner
October 27, 2009
We will miss John. I worked with John for over twenty years. Many men returned home from war to their families because of John's efforts. May God send His incredible peace to both John's family and his long list of friends.
Al & Ruby Barkley
October 27, 2009
We send our deepest condolences to the family of John Merrick. I have worked with John for 31 years plus. He will be missed and will always remembered for the outstanding co-worker he was.
Earl Withrow
October 27, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. John was a valued employee with our organization and a patriot. His contributions to our country and the warfighter will live forever.
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