Alton David Merrill Jr Obituary (1964 - 2017)

Alton David Merrill, Jr., of Loganville, Georgia, and Elk Ridge, Utah, beloved and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother returned home to our loving Heavenly Father on May 7, 2017. He was a courageous and faithful man who lived cheerfully for many years with a chronic lung condition. He died in Lawrenceville, Georgia, following a sudden allergic reaction to treatment. Born November 10, 1964 in Payson, Utah, Dave was the oldest of 14 children of A. David Merrill and Ann Etta Cope Merrill. He was a good example for his siblings, a gifted athlete, and a brilliant artist. He graduated with honors from Timpview High School, then served in the Argentina Cordoba Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. David treasured this time and developed humility and a great love of the gospel. He graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. There Dave met his best friend and companion, Trina Miller. They were married in the Salt Lake City Temple in July 1989. Dave and Trina were blessed with nine wonderful children, who are the center of their lives. He taught his family to love each other and the Lord. He encouraged his family by example to study and read to gain as much knowledge as possible. Dave enjoyed supporting their musical, athletic, and artistic pursuits. He served tirelessly and enthusiastically in his church callings. He exercised the gift of love and was loved wherever he went. Dave is known for his beautiful paintings of nature, wildlife, and spiritual themes. His art was a window to a world of peace and beauty. Dave will be missed, but his love and light will live on through his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Diana. He is survived by his wife Trina; his children Adam (Cynthia), Melissa (Christian), Shaun (Sierra), Christian, Kyle, Autumn, Caleb, Samuel, and Heather, and 12 siblings. A visitation will be held at the Elk Ridge 2nd Ward, 259 East Alpine Drive, Elk Ridge, UT, from 9:00-10:45 am on Saturday, May 13, followed by 11 am funeral services. Interment will be in the Payson City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.