James Merrill Obituary

Jim Merrill passed away May 20, 2009 at his home surrounded by his family in Peyton, CO. Jim was born May 19, 1911 in Boston, MA to Mary Mullaney and Thomas Merrill. He graduated from Saugus High School in Saugus, MA in 1929. He married Elizabeth Randall October 10, 1938 in Saugus, MA. Elizabeth preceded him in death in 2001. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Lawrence Merrill of New York. James is survived by his son, James A. Merrill , daughters ; Donna Schoon and Christine Hill, daughter- in- law, Evolyn Merrill, grandchildren; Kevin Merrill, Dwayne Merrill, Patricia Milner, Jimmie Schoon, Kathryn Schoon, Mikaela Schoon, great-grandchildren ; Nicholas and Kayla Merrill, Jeffrey Merrill, Brandon Milner and Eric Milner. Mr. Merrill retired in June 24, 1977, after 30 years as an Electronic Maintenance Supervisor at Fort Carson. He was a resident of Colorado Springs since the early 1940’s. Jim was an avid amateur ham radio operator - WOANX. He enjoyed talking to people all over the world. AS a YAL Hockey Coach for 17 years at the Broadmoor Ice Arena he was named a “top hockey coach�. He was also a member of the Broadmoor Skating Club. Even though Jim lost his arm at age 7, he played all kinds of sports. Jim was inducted into the Saugus High School Hall of Fame in 1966 for sports excellence. Jim had a special saying for those handicapped, “Don’t let it hold you back, participate, get involved, take heart, take part�. Jim was a very special man and will be missed by many. A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, May 26, 2009, 12:00 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 6455 Brook Park Dr., Colorado Springs, CO.