Merrilyn Frances Dawson

Merrilyn was born in Elbow Lake, MN to Merrill and Marguerite Thompson. When she was born, she was diagnosed with a heart condition. Doctors mentioned she wouldn't lived to see her fifth birthday. She made history in 1943 where she was first successful heart repair surgery at the University of Minnesota.

She knew from an early age, she was meant to be a teacher. After completing her degree from Macalester College, she went onto teach first grade in White Bear Lake.

Merrilyn married Darryl and adopted two beautiful children, Kurt and Connie. Once both children were in school, Merrilyn went back to teaching preschool at Faith United Methodist Church, St. Anthony. Her legacy lives on through the hundreds of young lives she touched for over 20 years.

She loved music, whether it was playing the piano, participating in a choir or listening to music of all kinds. Other hobbies includes, playing cards, reading books, boating with the family and traveling with friends.

Merrilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Darryl; sister Mae Ellen; and nephew, Merrill James.

She is survived by her children, Kurt (Seema) and Connie; grandchildren, Tyler, Mila and Dillon; sister-in-law, Janet Broberg; nieces, Candice (Tom) and Linda; and nephews, Jeff, Greg and Nick.

Celebration of life will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026 at Faith United Methodist Church, St. Anthony at 11:00 am with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am.