Richard Allen Merrill

Richard (Dick) Merrill, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025 at the age of 93. Born on October 1, 1932 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Dick was known by his integrity, hard work, and devotion to family. He was also known for his steady presence, quiet strength, and unwavering values. Over the course of his life, he served as a guiding example to those who knew him. Dick served in the Air Force during the Korean War and was awarded the Korean War Service Medal. He always said he "flew a desk"! After being honorably discharged from military service, he and Lois moved from Sioux Falls to Columbia Heights, and eventually settled in St. Anthony for 36 years. There, they raised their three children on Silver Lake, a close-knit lakeside neighborhood. They established friendships with neighbors that lasted for decades. While raising their family, Dick went on to have a 50 plus year career as an attorney specializing in Estate Planning, where his deep sense of responsibility and commitment to doing what was right was premier. His last professional role was with Barna, Guzy and Steffen, LTD, where he left an indelible mark. Ultimately, Dick and Lois moved to Blaine, MN to start their new journey in life. During retirement, he continued to enhance the lives of those around him through golf, travel, gardening and being an integral part in building memorable moments for his family, friends and neighbors! In the last few years, Dick and Lois hosted family and friends at their home for the 3M Open. The last time for this gathering in August, 2024, they had over 30 members of their family in their home. What a great hoorah for all! His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished. Dick was a devoted husband to Lois for 67 years, and loved and took care of her to the end of this earth! He was a loving father to Paul, Ricky, and Maria and he took great pride in his family and found his greatest joy in their accomplishments and happiness. His wisdom, patience, and sense of responsibility shaped generations. He is survived by wife Lois (Paulson)Merrill, son Paul (Becky) Merrill and daughter Maria Merrill. Grandsons Austin (Colleen) Merrill and Connor (Mary) Merrill. Great grandchildren Payton, Kennedy and Shepherd. Dick is also survived by sister JoAnn (Derald)Espeland and sisters-in-law, Alyce Merrill and Corene (Rich) DeSmet, and a multitude of near and dear nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death was his son, Richard Joel Merrill. Parents George and Edna (Hink)Merrill. Brothers and sisters Don, Glenn and sister-in-law, Carol, Shirley, Bob, and Beverly. In honor of Dick's life, a visitation will be held January 23, 2026 starting at 10:00 a.m. and a Celebration of Life Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Nativity Lutheran Church located at 3312 Silver Lake Road NE, St. Anthony, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to TSE Inc., Special Olympics, American Heart Association, or Alzheimer's Association.

Tributes

Richard Allen Merrill

October 1, 1932 - December 24, 2025

Tributes

Richard Allen Merrill

October 1, 1932 - December 24, 2025

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