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Keegan Merrick Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
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Memories and Condolences
for Keegan Merrick
Kirk Vaughan
November 6, 2009
Keegan,
We loved you in high school. You changed so many of our lives.
You made Vermont Academy a special place for me... away from the troubles at home, you always brought joy to my life -- our life -- I speak for many people.
You remained in touch and never changed...your soft voice, and lovely spirit. You never waivered from being who you were and encouraging others to be who they were.
You are so missed. I know you are protecting your family and watching them from the heavens.
Kelly Humes
February 1, 2009
His rough no nonsense exterior scared many off….but those that stuck around, well, we were the lucky ones. It’s accurate to say there aren’t words to describe a loss, in most cases, however in this case there are many. Keegan was a force to be reckoned with. His abrasive delivery was a mere shield that with a little time was lowered and his heart of gold revealed. To learn of his exit from this world was to learn that the world of all those who knew and loved him would never be the same. My first impressions of Keegan were that of his confidence and experience with animals. He arrived to do relief work at a veterinary practice where I had been employed for years. Despite my experience, Keegan worked circles around me. He was patient but assertive, he was gentle and knew how to make the animals comfortable, but became “pack leader” whenever necessary. The staff shared a feeling of intimidation and spoke cautiously of the new Mr. Know-It- All, but secretly most of us were anxiously awaiting our admittance into the Keegan club. I was lucky enough to get to know him on a personal level and grew to admire his love of music, football, his friends, good food, even better wine, but most of all the way he spoke of and loved his mother, Bree and his brother, Quinn. I admired the way that he managed to mention his mother, what she loved, how she would or wouldn’t approve of things, in nearly every situation. I found it admirable that he spoke about his brother like he was a superhero, never having met Quinn I always pictured a red cape with lightning bolts and super powers. Keegan was protective of his family and friends and one of the many benefits of being in his club was the respect he demanded from the world when it came to the people that he cared about. Keegan and I were only remotely in touch for several years, however in the past year I had the pleasure of seeing and talking to him on many occasions. I remember his glow when he talked about Haliday, the wedding, trips they had taken, the house and of course his beautiful baby girl, Owyn. All of his rough, protective, assertive, pack leader ways were now dedicated to her. I had never seen a brighter smile than the one on his face when he talked about that baby girl. Most of us will never understand why Keegan is gone….for me I’m going to concentrate on cherishing the memories of when he was here. Much love and continuing thoughts to Bree and family.
Ron Crawford
January 31, 2009
I first met Keegan at a dog fighting seminar that he and Richard were putting on. YOu just know when some one can be a friend to you and that was Keegan. This past October we hung at the VACA Conferenc and the partied the nights away.
A true firend and professional will be missed.My heart felt synmpathy goes out to Merrick family.
ACO Crawford, Town of Vienna Animal Control.
Carolyn Bethea
January 30, 2009
My heart goes out to Keegan's family and other friends. He achieved and accomplished much during his short life. He will be missed by many.
Alvin Jones
January 30, 2009
I first met Keegan when I interviewed him for the position of Animal Control Officer in Richmond. I was impressed by his professionalism and desire for excellence. Keegan was a good friend and collogue He will truly be missed.
Peter Senne
January 29, 2009
Keegie could never have known how very much he brought to the lives of us all. His remembrance will always give us strength and brighten our lives. What a wonderful gift for his so few years.
ERica Haynie
January 29, 2009
Keegan was a great person to have met, I met him at SCAD when we both went to school there.. He was an amazing person, and friend, he will be missed. I am sad to see that he will not be able to impact more people and animals bc his life was cut short. My heart goes out to the ones he left behind. I hope now he can finally be at peace with himself.
Bob and Panadora Benton
January 28, 2009
Bree, Gary and Family
Very sorry to hear of your lost! Our prayers go with you and your family.
Sammye Newman
January 28, 2009
As a wildlife rehabilitator in Richmond, I had the good fortune to interact with Keegan a number of times when he brought wild animals to Cary St. Vet. He was an incredibly caring and kind person and, at the same time, always professional and focussed on the animal in his care. He clearly was a special person. I was shocked to hear of his passing - my thoughts and prayers go out to his daughter, his wife, and his extended family. Owyn, he will live on through you.
Gary & Brenda Ackerman
January 28, 2009
Gary & Bree and family,
Words cannot express what it feels like to lose a family member. You have our deepest sympathy and prayers in your loss, and we will keep you in our thoughts.
Barbara Jones, Lead ACO
January 28, 2009
Keegan, my co-worker, my friend, my brother..... I met Keegan in 2003 when he joined us here at Animal Care and Control. I remember the first time I laid eyes on him. It was for his initial interview. He was wearing his scrubs because he had just gotten off of work. He wanted the job so bad, he didn't bother to change his clothes. I knew then, he was something special. Keegan and I became really good friends, really fast. We would have football parties at his house, which was a funny thing. Since he was a Giants' fan and I am a Cowboys' fan. Those parties were really interesting! Bree, Hal, and Owyn..I can imagine just how you feel. We all lost someone truly special in our lives. He will always be loved and truly missed.
Jessie Valente
January 28, 2009
Dear Halliday, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Though we haven't spoken in a long time, I want you to know that I'm thinking of you. I've always admired your strength and character. Sincerely, Jessie Valente
Bernadette Downey
January 28, 2009
Dear Bree, Teddy, Bianca, and Quinn - I am deeply sorry for Keegan's passing - I will pray for your strengths, for his family, God's comfort to you all, and for Keegan's peace.
Heather Cook
January 27, 2009
Keegan in the short time that I knew you, I saw how much of an impact you made on the Samuel family. And it made me realize how many people's lives you have touched. You taught me a lot about life with the detailed conversations we had. You will truly be miss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. One day we will all be with you again to sit around play cards. I love you
Art Trotter
January 26, 2009
My deepest, deepest sympathies. A great friend and a great neighbor. You will be missed.
Larry New
January 26, 2009
My deepest sympathies for his family and friends. Keegan was a superlative ACO and was always ready to help. A true loss. You'll be missed my friend.
Danny Samuels
January 26, 2009
Keegan was a close friend to myself and my family. My dad loved him like a son. He always brought life to the party! We would play cards and hang-out until early in the morning. Although I did not know him as well as my father, I know him well enough to say that he will be sorely missed and never be forgotten.
Valerie & Walter Szewelanczyk
January 26, 2009
Keegan, we're sorry it had to end this way, we will miss you. We promise to watch over Halliday and Owyn and do whatever we can to get them through this.
MELINDA BITTLER
January 26, 2009
KEEGAN WAS A GREAT MAN AND WILL BE MISSED. MY PRAYERS ARE FOR HIM AND THE FAMILY DURING THIS TIME.
Caroline Hairfield
January 26, 2009
Keegan,
Although short, your life made such an impact on the world around you. From your family, friends to the citizens you served you were truly a hero. We will miss your smile, your sense of humor your dedication to fight the good fight.
Good night friend.
Katie Koehler
January 26, 2009
Will be immensly missed and never forgot. My condolences to his family.
JOYCE Spencer
January 26, 2009
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Jamison
January 26, 2009
Keegan, words cannot describe the loss everyone is feeling for your passing. You were a great man with a wonderful personality. You could bring a smile to my face any day. I speak for me and lots others at communications when I say that you will be missed. Keep on keepin' on Keegan! Keep doing what you love up there!
Maddie
January 25, 2009
I don't have many memories of you because the times I saw you were so few, but ever since I was little I worshiped the ground you walked on...you were my superhero-cousin...every memory I have of you, you were always grinning or laughing and that's how I'll always remember you.
Phil Hoffmann
January 25, 2009
You touched many lives, people and animal. Gonna miss you.
Melanie Tobin
January 25, 2009
My thoughts & prayers go out to the Merrick family. ACO Melanie Tobin Chesapeake Va
Ally Desautels
January 25, 2009
'Keeg-ie' will forever hold a special place in my heart and I will always remember him as the beautiful soul he truly is. His 'niece-dog' Lani loved him so very much and I find some amount of comfort in that she finally has someone she loved so deeply with her now.
Quinn, Bree, Bianca, Hal:
My heart is breaking for you all.
Please know that I am thinking of you and am so sorry for your loss.
Desiree Stannard
January 25, 2009
Keegan......no words can express what I am feeling right now. I can not believe I will never see your face again or see your smile. I will remember you always....
Dan Lannutti
January 25, 2009
Keegan many will mourn and miss you, most of all though, the animals you have saved and protected.
Godspeed "Superkeeg" !
Michele Wong
January 25, 2009
Dear Keegan,
I will miss the many nights of eating fried calamari and drinking espresso shots with you. I am truly sorry I didn't get to say goodbye. You will always be loved and in our hearts. My condolence to Owyn, family, and friends.
Keegan Miller
January 25, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with Keegan and his family. He was a wonderful person!
Ronda McCall-Godwin
January 25, 2009
I meet Keegan back in 1996 while we were both freshmen at The Savannah College of Art and Design. He had this light that shined brighter than the morning sun, and he had this energy that you wanted to be around, because it made you feel alive. Keegan was a dear and special friend of mine, a bond that will never be broken. When my husband James and I were married in September of 2001, Keegan stood with us as a groomsmen, because he was more of a brother to me than a friend. I can not imagine the pain that his family must feel, and please know that you are in James and my prayers! Keegan was also a great friend to my dog Bogie, and I know that when Bogie is no longer with me, that Keegan has him covered, and will not let him be alone.
Kevin Kilgore
January 25, 2009
Keegan you are a good animal control officer, a gentleman, father, and a prince among men. It is not good night sweet prince, but sharpen your sword in heaven and be ready for all the dog fighters and other people we send up to you by the Virginia Animal Fighting Taskforce. We will always "fight the good fight" in your memory.
misty collins
January 25, 2009
The animals have lost a true friend. We all have. See you next time around, Keeg.
Cheyenne Petrov-Watson
January 25, 2009
I am so sad that Keegan is gone. He was such a great person and such a great friend to those who needed him, both two-legged and four-legged. I am so sorry for his family and pets. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Inger Reres
January 25, 2009
I was greatly saddened to hear of the loss of Keegan. A great man, and a great officer. May he always be remembered.
Ashley Atkinson
January 24, 2009
Keegan, We went through so much back in our Tuckahoe Days. You taught me so much about the job and about me, getting back to me that is. You touched my life I could never thank you enough. Always in my thoughts, now also always in my heart. My heart goes out to your family, your daughter. Watch her from a star above as you will always be the brightest star in the sky to her. I will miss you with all of my heart even though we have lost contact over the years. I promise this to you... Rest well my friend, we will meet again!
Ash
Kathryn Bertoni
January 24, 2009
My deepest sympathies go out to Keegan’s family. Keegan was a good friend back in high school and I’ll never forget his sense of humor, his smile, his kindness toward the people and animals he cared about. I am terribly saddened by his death and my condolences go out to his family.
Dr. and Mrs. Earl Willis
January 24, 2009
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Keegan Merrick. He was a wonderful man and truly dedicated to his work. Our hearts go out to his entire family.
Robert Heslop
January 24, 2009
Superkeeg you will be greatly missed. I only knew you on the acofunstop forums but you were a great source of information and an inspiration to us all.
My condolence to the family.
Liz Engle
January 24, 2009
Keegan possessed an unbridled amount of passion for his family and his job that I have found in few others. His heart was as big as his smile. He will be missed by his friends terribly. My deepest sympathies are extended to his family.
Winnie Kelly
January 24, 2009
I am so saddened by Keegan's loss, so young. I met him through a national animal control officers' association and always thought of him as one of our up-and-coming bright lights in the profession.
I know that his wife, his daughter, and his co-workers are in all our prayers. May he be at peace with God, until we meet again.
Alison Gianotto
January 24, 2009
Keegan, you were taken from us too soon. You will be deeply missed, by both the people and animals whose lives you touched every day. We will miss you.
Kathi Shields
January 24, 2009
I worked with Keegan throughout the year at AC&C for the last 4 years. This past summer I worked really close with him to automate his files - never would have thought it would end like this. My thoughts and prayers go out to Halliday, Owyn, and his entire family.
A fund is set up for his daughter through the Richmond Animal Welfare Foundation. Please visit the Animal Shelter on Chamberlayne Ave. if you would like to contribute.
Natalie Weaver
January 24, 2009
You will be greatly missed and never forgotten Keegan!
Kimberly Kitchen
January 24, 2009
I am tremendously saddened over the loss of Keegan. But I will always remember his smile, sense of humor and dedication to everything he did. He made such an impact on everyone in his life and was nothing short of an angel to the animals of the City of Richmond. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family, with an extra special prayer for his precious daughter.
Megan Moreland
January 24, 2009
Although I only met Keegan a short time ago at the VACA Conference, I knew by his smile and warm spirit that he was a great guy. He was friendly, introducing himself to everyone and always had a smile on his face. You could also tell he had a great passion for his job and a great love for his family. I am blessed that I was able to meet such a great guy and his compassion and dedication to his job makes me want to strive to have the same as an ACO. I pray for his wife and daughter and my thoughts are with those who were blessed to have known him as well.
S. Jessee
January 24, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
DR.JOHN GRAY
January 24, 2009
KEEGAN WAS A DEDICATED RAC OFFICER.HE WAS A FAVORITE AT BOULEVARD ANIMAL HOSPITAL BECAUSE OF HIS PERSONALITY AND PASSION FOR ANIMALS.HE WAS TOUGH BUT FAIR IN DEALING ANIMAL OWNERS THAT WERE UNDER INVESTIGATION.WE WILL MISS HIM AND HE WILL NOT BE EASY TO REPLACE.THE STAFF AT BAH.
Jamie Buckmaster
January 24, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am stunned. I knew officer Merrick from my years of animal rescue. He was a good man
Gwenn Green
January 24, 2009
My heart breaks for the family, and especially for my friend, Bree, Keegans mom.
RPD 2nd precinct officer
January 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the Merrick family. Keegan Merrick was a phenomenal animal control officer and a great guy. He will be missed. We are all deeply saddened by this untimely loss.
Susan Sasek
January 23, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with Keegan's wife, daughter, family, friends and co-workers.
Kristen Harris
January 23, 2009
Keegan, we will miss you so much. Your love for animals was incredible and we have definitely lost an amazing friend, ACO, father, husband, and confidant. We miss you and love you. God bless you and your wife and baby girl. I will keep you in my prayers.
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