Karl Merritt was an unforgettable character. Folks that met him were drawn to his quick wit and unique sense of humor. His smile was wide and his heart was big. One was not able to talk with Karl without hearing one of his unique jokes or a funny story.

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Karl was born March 12, 1932 to Richard and Sidney Merritt in Hysham Montana. He spent his younger years in Montana before serving his country in the Korean War - 1951 to 1953. He was discharged from the military in 1954. Karl achieved the rank of Corporal while serving in Korea and he was decorated with a National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with 4 Bronze Service Stars, an Army of Occupation Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal. Although injured during battle, he was treated in a French hospital and so was not awarded an earned Purple Heart.

Karl returned home and married his sweetheart Colleen in May of 1953. He is survived by 5 children, Karleen (Bob), Russell (Lori), Randy, Diane and Roger. His posterity includes an additional 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 2 soon-to-be great-great-grandchildren.

Karl and Colleen spent most of their years together in Salt Lake City near Liberty Park where they raised their 5 children. Karl and Colleen were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple in 1972. Karl was a locksmith for ~50 years. Nearly half of that time, he owned and operated D&K (Doug and Karl) Locksmith on 3300s. Many people remember Karl sitting behind the counter of that old shop with a cup of coffee and joke waiting.

Karl and Colleen spent the next 20 years in retirement in Fruitland UT, living in the cabin Karl built along with his kids and grandkids. While in Fruitland, Karl volunteered with the Church's humanitarian program and was always found cutting quilting squares or knitting a winter hat for the needy. While in Fruitland, they always had their best friends at their sides - their many dogs.

Just this past autumn, Karl and Colleen had moved to Ogden UT to be closer to family in their twilight days. He will be a missing figure in the lives of many as husband, dad and grandpa.