Russell Wade Merriott

Russell “Russ” Wade Merriott, of El Mirage, Arizona, passed away at the Banner Del Webb Medical Center in Sun City West after months of bravely fighting liver disease. Born on August 20, 1969, in Wichita Falls, Texas, he was the beloved son of Thomas Alan Merriott and Vicki Sue Hawkins Nelson.

Russ spent his early years in Texas before moving with his family to Arizona in the mid-1980s. On November 1, 1990, he married the love of his life, Karolyn “Kari” Jane Greer, in Phoenix, Arizona. Together, they shared 34 years of marriage and raised three wonderful children.

Russ began his career traveling as a Suzuki Factory Motorcycle mechanic, working with Jimmy Gaddis on the Supercross and Outdoor National Motocross circuit for several years. His time in the motocross industry reflected his lifelong passion for racing and mechanics.

He went on to spend ten years as a Maintenance Technician for the City of Phoenix at Sky Harbor Airport, where his skill, reliability, and good humor earned him great respect. Later, he joined Supreme Clean, a commercial pressure washing and fleet cleaning company, working alongside close friends Jeff Mason, Danny Pennington, and family. In the later part of his career, Russ managed a Dollar Tree store for thirteen years before joining Nationwide Signing Services, where he handled document management and delivery with his characteristic diligence and care.

Russ is survived by his wife, Kari; his children, Rabekka Joy Huntington (Seth) of Prescott Valley, Russell Jordan “RJ” Merriott (Brittaney Kaylee) of Apache Junction, and Danniel Joseph “DJ” Merriott of El Mirage; and his cherished grandchildren — Rhyder, Rhyatt, Sharlotte, Axell, Brynlee, Kyias, and Thayer. He is also remembered by his mother and stepfather, Vicki and Norman Nelson of Peoria, Arizona; father and stepmother, Thomas and Vickie Merriott of Spokane, Washington; sister, Jodi Cardella (Vince) of Peoria; brother, Ryan Merriott of Spokane, Washington; as well as his extended family and many dear friends who were touched by his kindness and loyalty. He is preceded in death by his grandson Gunner Huntington.

Russ loved watching motocross and NASCAR. In recent years, he discovered a passion for gardening, which brought him a great deal of joy. He always enjoyed working on cars, cheering for his favorite sports teams, and watching the History Channel. Above all, Russ cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren, especially when they went fishing together.

Those who knew Russ will remember him for his warm heart, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends. His life was a testament to perseverance, love, and faith.

A service celebrating Russ’s life will be held on November 1, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Pueblo el Mirage RV & Golf Resort, 11201 North El Mirage Road, El Mirage, AZ 85335, Recreation Hall 3. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.