Merrick E Burton

Merrick E Burton was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Merrick will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Merrick was born on August 24, 1948 in Baltimore Maryland to Maurice & Viola Aileen Burton.

As typical teenager, Merrick had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers, He graduated City College High School in Baltimore, Maryland.

Merrick joined the military at the age of 17 years old. Merrick saw action at the Vietnam war. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of Specialist. He received several awards recognizing him for his service, including a National Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star Metal, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Sharpshooter (Rifle). His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home. He had the honor to serve for two branches U.S. Army 9 years and U.S. Navy 6 years.

Empathic and loyal, Merrick was committed to making his new family happy when he married Mrs. Marie Legaspi on May 10, 1982. Merrick was blessed with five children, four daughters, Yolanda Burton, Brenda Burton, Marilyn Cropper, Michele Burton and one son, Richard Burton

After getting out of the Military Merrick Moved to San Diego, CA. and enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Merrick worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was driver for Taxi cabs or charter buses. Merrick always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done. Merrick worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs.

Merrick enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were scratching lottery tickets, collecting coins and trains. He also loved to watch his western movies and read the San Diego Union Tribune Newspaper. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others. He also took an active role in his community by volunteering at his kids elementary school. He was known as Mr. Burton.

Merrick is survived by his wife, Marie Burton; five children, four daughters, Yolanda Burton, Brenda Burton, Marilyn Cropper, Michele Burton and one son, Richard Burton. Another blessing for Merrick was the gift of thirteen grandchildren, De Andre, Dahniyah, Amaniyah, Jasmine, Alonna, Isaiah, Jaylin, Aarianah, Alyssa, Ariel, Destiny, Jayden and Thomas.

Merrick passed away on April 13, 2022 at the age of 73 at his residence in Chula Vista, CA. A viewing will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Chula Vista on Sunday, May 22, 2022 from 4pm to 10pm, A Funeral Service also at Funeraria Del Angel Chula Vista on Monday, May 23, 2022 at 11am, Merrick will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA following the funeral service.

Appointed pallbearers Richard Burton, Isaiah Burton, Wilbert Patterson, Mar'Shawn S. Williams, Thomas Cropper, Anthony Orozco, Odel Robinson and Janial M. Williams.

Simply stated, Merrick was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Merrick leaves behind him a legacy family and life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Merrick E Burton.