Barry Irving Merrick

He was born February 18, 1939 in Conneaut, Ohio, the son of Edward and Ruth Merrick.

Barry was preceded in death by his high-school sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Carol, and is survived by his children David (Amy) Merrick, Stephanie (Curt) Gillespie, and Suzanne (Jonathan) Eilert; grandchildren Megan (Colin) Bellantis, TJ (Lauren) Lynch, Emily Merrick, Margaret (Cameron) Meece, Daniel Eilert, Michael Merrick, Natalie Merrick, Ryan Merrick and Sophie Eilert; great-grandchildren Caleb and Cohen Bellantis, Hannah, Grayson and Hudson Lynch, and Aubrie Meece; brothers and sisters-in-law Ken (Sharon) Sahl, Chuck Ware, and Sheila Sahl; cousins Avis Marshall, Liz (Craig) Sleesman; step-sister Kathy (Jeff) Horwood and many beloved nieces and nephews and cousins.

As a proud graduate of The Ohio State University (BS) and Xavier University (MBA), he began his career as a sixth grade teacher. He then served for many memorable years as principal of Wickliffe Elementary School, vice-principal of Hastings Middle School, and lastly as principal of Tremont Elementary School, all within Upper Arlington Schools. Barry never saw his role as purely administrative. It was the relationships with teachers, students, staff and families that mattered most to him.

More than anything, Barry loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed time with his “Wesley Glen family” and many friends, as well as golfing, fishing, shooting pool, listening to jazz, reading and watching old movies. Most of all, he cherished the annual Merrick Family Vacation in Elk Rapids, Michigan.

Barry lovingly impacted the lives of all who met him with his kindness, humor and generosity. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and compassion that will endure in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be dearly missed, but his joyful spirit will live on in our many wonderful memories.

A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, March 23 at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 35 E Stanton Avenue, Columbus, Ohio, 43214. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a service following at 11:00 a.m.

Flowers can be sent to the church or, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lutheran outdoor ministries in Ohio by visiting the “support” page at hopewoodoutdoors.org.