David B. Merrick

David was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Daniel B. and Dagmar (Gustafson) Merrick on March 27, 1961. A graduate of Phillips University and Phillips Theological Seminary, he embraced a love of skunks (PU’s unofficial mascot) and amassed a collection of over 1000 skunks. He ministered at First Christian Church of Olathe for the past 19 years and was actively involved in regional and general ministries, as well as mission work in Costa Rica. David delighted in all of God’s creations, lived faithfully according to Christ’s teachings, and celebrated the relationships with others made possible through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

First Christian Church will hold a memorial service on May 23rd at 6:00 pm at Grace United Methodist Church, 11485 S. Ridgeview Road, Olathe, KS 66061. We are grateful to this church for providing accommodations with space for comfortable seating. A pie reception will be held following the service – David was always proud to proclaim that First Christian Church of Olathe is a pie church!

David is survived by his mother, Dagmar Merrick (Raymore, MO); wife, Carol (Weyeneth) Merrick and son, Daniel Merrick (Olathe); sisters Linda (Randy) Williams and Karen Merrick (Peoria, IL); numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws; and a multitude of “family in Christ”.

He was preceded in death by his brother (Philip), father (Dan), and daughter (Lily).

David requested that people bring garden flowers to the service in lieu of sending professionally arranged bouquets. Memorial contributions will go to the First Christian Church Youth Scholarship Endowment Fund and to Tall Oaks Conference Center Endowment Fund.

A dear man, David will be greatly missed. But his gardens will be tended by many, and his ministry will continue through those who knew and loved him.