Rodney James Merrigan

Born Rodney James Merrigan, but better known as Tyke Merrigan was a husband, brother, father, uncle, grandpa and a friend. He loved many things in this life, but nothing was more important than his family and friends. Tyke had a heart after God's own heart and wanted for none of his people to be left behind; he wanted to meet everyone again in heaven.

Tyke loved fishing, the Seahawks, Nascar, music, old western movies and mowing his yard. He not only mowed his lawn, but also any neighbor that would allow it and even some that didn't. The neighbors often had trouble allowing an amputee in a wheelchair to mow their lawn, but if he could convince them, he would do it with pride and pleasure.

Tyke leaves behind his wife of 29 years, Donna Merrigan, a brother Martin Merrigan (Teresa), son, Sean Piceno, stepchildren, Dane Hagan (Elizabeth) and Natalie Coble (Kyle) as well as many nieces, nephews and five grandsons. He is preceded in death by his brother, William Merrigan and sister, Lisa Griggs.

A celebration of Tyke's life will be held on October 9, 2021 at 1:00 pm at Schaefer-Shipman Funeral Home at 804 State Avenue, Marysville, Washington. Tyke was honorably discharged from the Army in 1975 and will be buried with a short military ceremony at Tahoma National Cemetery at 18600 SE 240th ST, Kent, Washington 98042 on October 14, 2021 at 1:30 pm.