John Jerald Merrill

John J. Merrill, 77, of Filley, passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at his home.  He was born March 22, 1939 at Nelson, Nebraska to William and Emma (Burkett) Merrill. John was a hard worker who in his spare time enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching old westerns and war movies.   He loved his pets and spending time with his grandkids.

Survivors include his daughters, Brenda Donner (Greg Hollman) of Crete; Rhonda Scusa (Mike) of Filley; Melinda Christen (Jerome) of Filley; grandchildren, Elizabeth Olson-Jones (Mark), Brandon Kage (Mallory), Tyler Kage, Bailey Donner, Kayla Hernandez, Kyle Hernandez, Hayleigh Bogues (Chad), Hannah, Holden and Hayden Christen; step-grandchildren, Brandon, Michaella and Dakota Scusa;  great-grandchildren, Ashton, Zachary, Olivia, Noah, Brealyn, Murphy and Chloe; brother-in-law, Loren Campbell of Hastings, NE; sisters-in-law; Betty Merrill of Minden, NE, Phyllis Merrill of Hastings, NE; special friend, Gerry Saunders of Lincoln, NE; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara (Shivvers) Merrill; parents; granddaughter, Hope Ann Christen (2001); son-in-law, Buff Bowman (2011); brothers, Jim, Chet, Harlan, Marvin, Jack, Steve, Dale and Dick Merrill; sisters, Naomi Zimmerman, Margaret Campbell and Virginia Gunderson; parents-in-law, John and Patricia Shivvers.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M.  Monday, February 20, 2017 at Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice with Pastor David Bigley officiating. Burial will be in the Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, Lincoln, NE following the luncheon at the Beatrice Vets Club. Military rites will be provided by National Guard Honor Guard and American Legion Post # 3.in Lincoln.  Closed casket visitation will be held Sunday Noon- 8:00 P.M. with family greeting friends from 4:00-5:30 P.M. at Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice.  Memorial is established to the family’s choice.  Condolences may be left online at www.harmanwrightmortuary.com. Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice in charge of arrangements.

 Service Information