Walter “Max” Merrill, born on March 24, 1935, to Jack and Coleen (Noble) Merrill, passed away peacefully Thursday, May 16, 2024. He was 89 years old.
Max married the love of his life, Audrey “Joan” (McCown) Merrill, on June 18, 1955, in Coeur d’Alene. Together, they built a life and a family, initially residing outside Potlatch, before moving to Garfield, in 1967.
Throughout his career, Max held various positions at Garfield Meats, Garfield Pea Mill and J.E. Love Company. He later joined Washington State University, where he worked for 17 years of service before retiring in 1994.
Max loved his horses, enjoyed tinkering at the pond, and took great pleasure in showing visitors around the area. Known for his storytelling, he captivated audiences, especially after several of his special cocktails Ten High and Coke.
Max was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Merrill; his parents, Jack and Coleen Merrill; and his sister June Davis. He is survived by his children: Cactus Merrill, of Harper, Ore.; Jack Merrill (Tena), of Potlatch; Treva Beebe (Pete), of Potlatch; and Joe Merrill (Angela), of Pullman. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Mitzimberg (Ed), of Garfield; nine grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the special staff at Regency Assisted Living for their patience and compassionate care over the years.
A private burial will take place, and a celebration of Walter’s life will be held on at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 20, at Merrill’s Pond.
Max’s humor and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him, as well as by the strangers he befriended along his ride.
Kramer Funeral Home of Palouse is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at kramercares.com.
