Earl Merrell

Earl Mar D Merrell, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home in Naples with his Sweetheart of 73 years by his side.  He was born in Vernal, Utah on January 2, 1929 to Charles Elwin and Rhoda Knight Merrell.  He was the youngest of 12 children.  He joined the US Army and was trained in construction at Ft. Lewis Washington, and was named Model Soldier of his platoon.    

After being discharged and returning home he began working in the oilfield. He worked at Uintah Sand and Gravel, D.E. Casada Construction and Salty Oaks Construction, where he was field foreman and was responsible for 127 men and 17 welders. In his later years, he started Earl M. Merrell Oilfield Services where he worked with his wife Dorothy by his side until he retired. Earl and Dorothy would drive to their job, and when the job was completed, they would head straight to the river to go fishing for the rest of the day.

Earl and Dorothy Geneva Winn were married March 1, 1950 in Vernal, Utah. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. Earl was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of The Latter-Day Saints and served in various callings, including serving a Stake Mission with his wife Dorothy in the Vernal area. They made their home in Naples just west of where Earl grew up. Earl was very proud of his pioneer ancestors who helped the Prophet Joseph Smith establish the church.

Earl spent his off-time catfishing on the Green River, with a 12-pound catfish to his credit. He also enjoyed hunting, rock collecting, and seeing the beauty in the world.

Earl was proceeded in death by his parents, and all of siblings and their spouses, and grandchildren Billy and LesLee Merrell.

He is survived by his Wife Dorothy, and children; Patty (Charlie) Hodges, Dan (Christy) Merrell, Jeff (Andrea) Merrell, Tammy (Bruce) Lee, all of Vernal, Terry (April) Merrell of Roosevelt, Utah, and Joni Merrell of Middletown, Rhode Island, 23 grandchildren and 39 great grandchildren.

Our Dad was the hardest working, honest man we will ever know. He taught us hard work, kindness, and how to find the beauty in the world. He loved his family more then anything and showed it to them every day. We will miss his stories, songs, and jokes. Love ya Dad.

The family would like to thank the home health workers, and Dr. Ace Madsen, who have loved and cared for Earl over the last several years.

A Viewing will be held at Blackburn Vernal Mortuary, on Tuesday, August 15^th at 9 A.M. with a Graveside service after the viewing at 10:30 at the Vernal Memorial Park with Military Honors.