Vincent Anthony Merrick

Vincent Anthony Merrick                                                                                                                                                                         

August 13, 1939 -- June 15, 2025

Vincent Anthony Merrick, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at the age of 85.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Laverne Juel Loeffel and William Calvin Merrick. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Merrick; his daughters, Alison McDaniel, and Nicki Merrick; his brother, William Calvin Merrick Jr,; and sister-in-law, Barb Merrick. Vincent also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward the memory of his love and enduring legacy.

Vincent’s early years were marked by a deep curiosity and appreciation for nature—qualities that would shape his life for decades. His time in Connecticut (1948-1956) stood out as some of the most joyful years of his youth. He developed a deep love for the outdoors—fishing, hunting squirrels, digging ponds, and planting water flora. During this time, he attended a private school, where he excelled academically.

In 1961, Vincent proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he pursued his academic interests by taking courses at the Illinois Institute of Technology, the Chicago Institute of Lighting, and Northwestern University.

Vincent began his professional journey as a draftsman, contributing his talents to several prominent firms including Luminous Ceilings, R. Toussant and Associates, and Halo Lighting. A visionary with an entrepreneurial spirit, he went on to establish and manage his own injection molding and manufacturing companies—Merrick Models in Chicago and VPM in the Phoenix area. As a mechanical engineer, he was admired for his precision, creativity, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Beyond his career, Vincent was a man deeply connected to nature. He was an avid outdoorsman—passionate about hunting, fishing, boating, and horseback riding. His love for animals and the wilderness was a central part of his identity and a source of continual joy throughout his life.

More than anything, Vincent found great joy in sharing life with his devoted wife, Kathy. Together, they cared for and rode their horses, raised chickens, tended to their turtles, and cherished the companionship of their beloved dog and cat. He warmly opened his home to his daughters and shared unforgettable experiences—traveling to different parts of the world, embarking on adventures that brought them closer together.

Vincent will be remembered for his brilliance, adventurous spirit, and steadfast pursuit of excellence. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will he held on Monday, June 30th at 10am at Faith Lutheran Church in Cottonwood, Arizona. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Vincent’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association in Vincent’s memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vincent Anthony Merrick, please visit our floral store.