Judy
So sorry and saddened to read of Steve's passing.  I recall you and I had daughters the same day or really close together.  Looking thru all the photos on line, it sure appeared you had a good life together.  I recall Steve being such a nice guy in school!  
My thoughts are with you as you go thru this sad time of healing.  May all the good memories  along with the support of family and friends carry you thru.
Sincerely,
Judy (Comeau) Smith

Dear Judy, Jill, Shari, Eric, Pat and family,

Even after two weeks away from all of you, I am still having trouble believing Steve is gone. I am glad there was a news story in the Sioux City Journal about this great newspaperman. In case people of Ida County have forgotten, Steve's mark of greatness was his backbone when writing editorials and standing up under pressure. He also was a terrific business manager, or the Pioneer Record never would have survived through thick and thin.

Personally, I am indebted to Steve for my early journalistic experience and his willingness to let me have lots of rein to write, write, write. And now, years later as a museum person, I  know our Plymouth County Museum would not have acquired the very valuable Smith "Dollie" collection, had Steve not allowed me to cover the Smith family so thoroughly for the Pioneer Record.

I remember with joy the way all of you shared Frosty with me and then welcomed Novi and Cally Jo to the newsroom. Steve even taught Novi how to roll over.

Then along came Eric and all the good times with him and Adam Ciha. Yes, we were family at the Pioneer Record. 

I had a dream the other night that we were honoring Steve for all of his newspaper accomplishments and that he waited until all eight of my dogs could find seats in the great hall. That must have been a reminder of how patient he was with me as his young reporter and how he loved having the animals in the newsroom.

Our deep loss is heaven's gain. May God watch over all of you as you attempt to cope with Steve's passing.

With so many good memories,

Judy Bowman

Judy, we were so shocked to read of Steve's death.  I am so grateful to have had dinner with you and Steve back in February.  Above all I am so grateful to have known Steve and shared stories and time.  My heart breaks for you, the girls and the grandkids.  I pray your faith will sustain you.  Your friends, Mark and Patricia Mehrhoff

Judy,
It's been so many years, but of course who could forget us as children, then later I met Steve at the TJ dances, what a nice-nice guy.  So sorry for your loss.  I didn't know you were here so close to us..  Barb Hoden Jackson

Judy and family, was so very sorry to read of Steve's death.  May God comfort you in your time of loss.

Gary & Jolene (Wilson) Fields

Judy and family, deepest sympathy for your loss.  Thinking of you at this most difficult time.

Judy and family, I am stunned to hear of Steve's death. I always looked forward to seeing him at TJ class reunions with you, Judy. He was, indeed, a good man, and he left us far too early, Please know that I am thinking about you and your family.  Kathy (Butler) Kuenzer

Judy and family,
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences upon your loss.  Memories of Steve as Marty's "older brother" revolve around our years growing up at First Christian Church.  The whole Merrill family were a special blessing to many of us. His strength of character leaves this world a better place.  God Bless You.

Judy, Jill, Shari and familiy - Our deepest sympathy to all of you at this trying time.  What a nice tribute to your husband and Father on the slideshow - photos capture all those memories we hold in our hearts.  As a classmate of Jill's - I am truly sorry for your loss of your Dad.  Treasure all those great memories and he will always be with you.  Your classmates are all thinking of you and your family at this time.  With deepest sympathy.  Kelly (Kurth) Keiter and family.  Take Care Jill.

Judy and family,  Our sympathy to you all...many shared memories from our years together in Ida Grove.

Shari and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time.

I will always remember Steve as a man of strength - strong conviction and sense of dedication, of course, physical strength - a strong hugger, a guy with beautiful blue eyes and a quick smile, and a good friend to my parents and to our family.  I will always smile when we talk about getting a "hellava deal on some chicken". …   With loving care for Judy, Shari, Jill and all of the family.  
Also, deepest sympathies from my Mom, Donna Kerr

I'll always remember Steve as the best conditioned man in Leisure World. I will miss seeing him running around the community in all kinds of weather and waving at me as I drove by  .

                                                                         Al Jacobs  [1711 LW]

Judy, Jill, Shari & family-WOW, we were shocked and saddened to hear about Steve. We send our deepest sympathy. As I read Shelley's post, I too have alot of fond memories of the Merrill family. MAY GOD HOLD YOU ALL IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND.

Judy and Family:  We were shocked and sorry to hear about Steve.  We extend our sympathy and know that he will be remembered by all.  We send our blessings and prayers.
Gary and JoAnn

Judy, Jill, Shari & families - My sympathy to all . . .  Jill, I have so many great memories growing up with the Merrill Family from parties, sports and just hanging out at your house.  Just wanted you to know you are never forgotten in Ida Grove and we love you all.
Shelley Swenson Bruning

Judy and family - we are so sorry to hear about Steve. He was truly a great man. He will always hold a special place in our hearts and the hearts of all of  the family. I was truly blessed to call him "cousin". He will be dearly missed by all of us. We will treasure all of the memories we have of him. You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers. 
Love - Pam and Kenny Pollreisz

OBITUARY

Stephen Paul Merrill

March 25, 1940 – December 10, 2013

Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park & Funeral Care

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