Merrick Makai Edmiston

Merrick Makai Edmiston September 9, 2012 – August 10, 2025 (age 12)

Merrick Makai Edmiston passed away peacefully at his home in Gray with his parents by his side after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends. Merrick is survived by his parents, Dakota & Natalie Edmiston, his brothers Micah, Solomon, and Sampson Edmiston and numerous other family members.

He Knew, by Natalie Edmiston: He gave us a glimpse into the future when we met baby Merrick six months before we were married. My cousin's wedding in Maui was no accident that brought Dakota's family and mine together. His vision was cast long before, a plan that we could never conceive. He knew that this child would be a gift, marking our lives and our marriage. But God gives and takes away. He knew that Merrick Makai would have a special meaning; the Gaelic - a place where a river divides or another meaning, famous. Makai, the place where the mountains meet the sea. Merrick's life changed course, and He knew that everyone would be touched by this beautiful soul. But God gives and takes away.

He Knew that Merrick's spirit and nature would challenge our conventional, pragmatic worldview. Merrick would live life slowly and appreciate the little things. He would take time to dwell in nature, feel the rhythm of the hills riding his bike, the water flow under his board, the sounds that make music in his ears. Merrick would take time and share it with others. But God gives and takes away. He knew that Merrick's song would sound in the quiet moments of the hospital, his complete contentment in profoundly difficult circumstances. He knew that Merrick's song would sound in his steadfast love and faithfulness in the Lord, His song would sound in his unshakable trust in the One who created Him, believing in the possibility of a miracle to the end. But God gives and takes away.

He Knew that we would suffer, yet the miracle remains. Merrick is made whole and abides with his perfect heavenly father. Merrick's gifts and talents to be fully displayed to honor the One who created him. He knew every moment of this summer would be laid out according to His plan. Everything perfectly aligned. Merrick lived to the fullest. God spared him long suffering and granted our request. Our 12th anniversary, August 10th, 2025 Merrick went home to be with the Lord. Merrick's song is not over, but will continue to sound through eternity, marking our marriage - a picture of Christ and his love for the church. To remain in our hearts and our memory until we are united again in heaven. Because God gives and takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

A private service was held with his immediate family and Merrick was interned in Gray Village Cemetery. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks for the love and support from our family, community, and friends who have been by our side and the health care providers that gently cared for Merrick.