John Merrell

John Alfred Merrell was born June 23, 1951 in Rifle, Colorado to Charles Merrell and Alma Jane Smith. He lived a very difficult, but refining sixty-three years and passed away January 13, 2015 at the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo, Utah, and will be buried in the Provo City Cemetery beside his Mother and Father. He is survived by his brother Charles Lynn (Elaine) Merrell from Montpelier Idaho and eight nieces and nephews (Chuck Merrell, Janet Merrell, Ryan Merrell, Mark Merrell, Julie Virgin, Casey Merrell, Audrena Apadaca, and Shannon Miller). He is preceded in death by his father and mother, brother, Robert Lane Merrell and sister Laura LeAnn Merrell. John lived most of his life in Western Colorado and graduated from high school in Rifle, Colorado. John worked in grocery stores, cafes and then became an orderly in the hospital. He worked towards his LPN degree at Colorado Mountain Community College in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. He worked at various hospitals in western Colorado with his nursing career. With his parents failing health and a move to Provo, Utah, he quit his nursing job and preformed around the clock nursing care for his father, mother and sister who had suffered the effects of Polio all her life. He cared for them until their deaths. He was an ideal brother, son and was considered a great friend to many. He had a warm and delightful personality and loved striking up a conversation with most anyone. He married Peggy Doyle, July 13, 1978 and was later divorced. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints, and held the office of High Priest. Due to his own failing health he became a resident of Rock Canyon Skilled Nursing Facility where he was cared for by the many wonderful doctors and nurses. These caring professionals not only provided excellent medical care, but love and friendship in a warm and kind facility. He loved those in the nursing home and served as President of the residents activity association for one year and secretary of the group until he returned to his Father in Heaven. Memorial Services will be held at Sundberg Olpin Mortuary Chapel - January 17, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. and viewing will be held one hour prior to services. Interment will be in the Provo City Cemetery.

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