Michael D. Merrill

Mike Merrill, 73, passed away April 8, 2025. He was born to Jim and Mary Lou Merrill on May 28, 1951, in Colfax. Dad graduated from Lewiston High School in 1970 and enlisted in the U.S. Army soon after. Following basic training, Dad was selected for Green Beret training at Fort Bragg, N.C.
Mike married Lorna Papworth on May 29, 1971, having four children together (later divorcing). That fall, Dad was sent to Vietnam to serve his country honorably as a Green Beret. During Mike's tour of duty, JoAnn, the oldest daughter, was born. Dad didn't meet "Sis" until she was 6 months old. After Vietnam, Dad finished his military service in Massachusetts.
Dad loved the outdoors - fishing, hunting and camping. He worked at the JP Mill in Pierce, at UPS, then managing road construction projects in the Seattle area.
Dad is survived by his four children: JoAnn Merrill Bricker, Melinda Avrett (Scott), Tammy Chang (Jeff), and Chad Merrill (Breanna); grandchildren: Samantha (Mitch), Madison (Kody), Cassandra, Connor, Cassie, Kai and Ali; great-grandchildren Paisley and Beckett; two sisters; best friend Dan Anderson and others. Preceding him in death: parents; sister Sandy and brother Doug.
While hearing stories of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in his last hours, Dad smiled, winked twice at me, and squeezed my hand before peacefully passing away.